IT IS no surprise that people are concerned over the future of Yate’s Minor Injury Unit (MIU) in the Yate West Gate Centre.


When health secretary Jeremy Hunt commented on the MIU’s lack of success in taking pressure off accident and emergency (A&E) services, it was always going to cause a stir.


The MIU is an asset to the town – as it would be in any area – and taking it away could cause considerable upset and uproar.


Despite the revelation that the MIU has not reached targets of expectation, the service is well-used and, if cut, would be missed by many who would prefer not to have to face travelling to Southmead instead.


The MIU is a drop-in centre which provides a good service which many people rely on when they are in need of medical attention.


Communication over its services has hinted at a bleak future, focussing on its failings as opposed to the beneficial aspects it has brought to patients over the last few years.


At least by people coming together to show how important the MIU is to their town, there will be no doubt of the strength of feeling if any cuts go ahead.


Perhaps the focus should be on what the service does, rather than what it does not.


Since its opening only five years ago, the service has helped a number of people who have been left satisfied by its convenience – something that should be taken into consideration, and echoed more to avoid doubt falling into people’s minds.