MP MEETS WITH LOCAL CHIROPODISTS IN WESTMINSTER

10.12.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 12th Feb 2007

Solihull's LibDem MP, Lorely Burt met with local chiropodist Professor Robert Ashford at a lobby day at the Houses of Parliament recently. The day was organised by the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists to highlight the fact that good foot health is an essential component of a high quality of life, and podiatry is a key element of preventative medicine.

Professor Ashford is Professor of Podiatry, Director of Postgraduate Research Degrees at UCE Birmingham, is Chairman of the Birmingham Branch of the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists and is involved in private practice in Birmingham.

Professor Ashford commented:

"I am delighted that Mrs. Burt met me to discuss how we can keep improving the quality and range of podiatric services. Podiatry is making a major contribution to improving public health, providing more convenient and accessible services, and helping the NHS and other local health services to meet local need.

Any reduction in spending on foot health services at a local level runs the risk of defeating objectives to prevent illness, to reduce health inequalities and to promote healthy and active life among the population."

Mrs Burt commented:

"There's an old saying, 'If your feet hurt you hurt all over' Simple procedures like corn and callus removal can make a huge difference to the quality of life for old and young alike."