We are strongly opposed to the NHS CCG’s decision to withdraw funding of Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation classes in Gateshead from 31st March 2017. These classes provide a health recovery environment through exercise to scores of people across Gateshead every week, who suffer from heart and chest disease and other health issues. The classes are provided by the only two remaining Physical Activity Specialists (after previous redundancies) and have a very positive effect on improving the health and lifestyles of the participants. Health across the borough will drastically deteriorate if these redundancies are made. We ask the CCG to reconsider their decision and reinstate funding.