Reforming NHS funding

Pressures on the UK NHS continue to worsen; an ageing population and increasing numbers of people living with chronic and long-term conditions, in addition to the rising cost of treatments, mean the current model is in urgent need of reform. Change is promised, but how quickly can the new government begin to turn the tide?

Early this year, the UK's Public Accounts Committee (2025) published a report addressing the financial sustainability of the NHS. The authors highlight significant concerns about the NHS's financial management, strategic planning, and the readiness of its leadership to implement essential reforms. The financial position of the health service continues to worsen, with local systems overspending by around £1.4 billion in 2023–24 due to rising demand, failure to invest in the estate, inflation and workforce issues.

Patients are paying the price for inadequate funding, leading to deteriorating health outcomes and greater long-term costs to the NHS. Health professionals are forced to make sometimes impossible decisions, with the need to address clinical needs but take into account budget constraints. The consequences are serious, with stressed, over-worked staff suffering from low morale and eventual burnout. We cannot afford to lose these valuable professionals during the current crisis.