12-09-2024
“What’s urgently needed is a commitment to ‘twin track’ funding to support transformation while maintaining existing services”
Eleanor Roy, CIPFA Health and Social Care Policy Manager, responds to Lord Darzi's report on the state of the National Health Service in England.
CIPFA Health and Social Care Policy Manager, Eleanor Roy, said:
“Lord Darzi’s findings may surprise some, but the NHS’s challenges—rising demand, workforce pressures, limited resources, and outdated infrastructure—have been clear for years. His report provides a vital roadmap for the Labour government’s 10-year plan for NHS reform.
“While the focus on community care and prevention is welcome, this approach isn’t new. What’s urgently needed is a commitment to ‘twin track’ funding to support transformation while maintaining existing services. A cross-government approach is essential to address the broader social determinants of health.
“The report’s emphasis on NHS spending, particularly the estate, resonates with CIPFA’s work. Under-investment and a restrictive capital regime are significant barriers to progress.
“However, responding to this report cannot come at the expense of other public sector institutions, which face similar challenges. The NHS is in its toughest financial position to date, and while more funding would be welcome, it must be effectively targeted. We urge the government to ensure the funding and finance regime is fit for purpose, delivering sustainable, long-term change across both the NHS and public services.”
Notes to editor
- Coming soon: CIPFA’s Exploring challenges and opportunities for the NHS estate report which continues the debate on NHS reform.
- For more information, please contact the CIPFA Press Office at press@cipfa.org.