The extreme weather conditions of recent weeks have affected communities all over the country. Snow, ice and freezing temperatures have presented numerous challenges for us all and, for many, these challenges are likely to continue. I would therefore like to take this opportunity to thank NHS and social care staff, along with local partner organisations, for all their efforts in helping to keep essential health and social care services running through this difficult period. The resilience the NHS as a whole has demonstrated is a tribute to all those who work for it. It also shows how the strength of planning for swine flu and winter pressures has brought wider dividends this year.

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