My name is Jonathan Townend. As a child, I underwent life‑saving brainstem tumour surgery. Today, at 56, I live with the long‑term consequences of that operation: I can no longer walk more than 20 metres, I experience tremors, focal seizures, cognitive difficulties, breathing problems, fatigue, and severe visual impairment. My wife is now my full‑time carer.

Over the years, I've needed to rely on my medical records to ensure I receive the appropriate care and treatment. They provide a detailed history of my health journey, documenting critical surgeries, treatments, and medical interactions that are vital in managing my current health condition. However, I recently discovered that core medical records are sometimes deleted or removed from NHS systems, which could have dire consequences for patients like me.

Core medical records are essential for providing consistent and accurate healthcare. Deleting them could lead to misdiagnosis, unnecessary procedures, or inappropriate treatment plans, potentially compromising patient safety. Moreover, the absence of comprehensive medical records can add stress and uncertainty to the lives of patients and their families, who are already facing immense challenges.

The deletion or alteration of core medical records can also result in a lack of continuity in care, as new healthcare providers may not have access to the patient's complete medical history. This can hinder their ability to make informed decisions and provide the best possible care.

I urge the NHS and relevant health authorities across the UK to ban the deletion of core medical records. By implementing stricter regulations and ensuring the integrity and preservation of these records, we can protect patients and enhance the quality of care they receive.

Please sign this petition to show your support for ensuring that NHS medical records are maintained, safeguarded, and never subject to deletion. Your signature could help protect the health and well-being of countless individuals who, like me, depend on their medical histories for safe and effective healthcare.