NHS policy

NHS England is not reducing the unacceptable variation in support for people with frailty across and within Integrated Care Boards (ICBs). There is significant and unexplained regional variation between areas – 32 out of 106 local NHS areas assessed less than 10% of patients aged 65 and over. The NICE’s guidelines specify that any patient living with frailty who has fallen in the past year should be offered a comprehensive falls risk assessment and comprehensive falls management. However, in ...

Why linked: PAC investigation into NHS England's oversight of unacceptable variation in ICB support for frailty; directly addresses systemic NHS governance and service delivery

NHS England is not reducing the unacceptable variation in support for people with frailty across and within Integrated Care Boards (ICBs). There is significant and unexplained regional variation between areas – 32 out of 106 local NHS areas assessed less …

NHS England’s existing oversight arrangements are not improving GPs’ assessment and support of people with frailty. It is not clear exactly who is responsible for improving performance. NHSE considers that ICBs are responsible for commissioning services to meet the needs of their population; and that the service providers must ensure that the services they are commissioned to provide are delivered. We are concerned that this divided system could lead to no-one being responsible. NHSE is aware...

Why linked: PAC finding on NHS England oversight arrangements for GP frailty support; addresses systemic NHS governance and performance accountability

NHS England’s existing oversight arrangements are not improving GPs’ assessment and support of people with frailty. It is not clear exactly who is responsible for improving performance. NHSE considers that ICBs are responsible for commissioning services to meet the needs …

NHS England has overloaded GPs, who have limited capacity, with new and expanding priorities. NHSE has prioritised improving patients’ access and digital access to general practice. It recognises that pushing to improve one aspect of care inevitably causes consequences to appear elsewhere, in this case, support for people with frailty.NHSE is looking at interventions that could be done by other healthcare professionals in primary care. For example, NHSE is looking to step up the clinical serv...

Why linked: PAC finding on GP capacity and NHS England priorities; addresses systemic NHS service delivery policy and workforce pressure

NHS England has overloaded GPs, who have limited capacity, with new and expanding priorities. NHSE has prioritised improving patients’ access and digital access to general practice. It recognises that pushing to improve one aspect of care inevitably causes consequences to …

On the basis of a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General, we took evidence from the Department of Health and Social Care (the Department) and from NHS England (NHSE).1

Why linked: PAC evidence session on NHS England and DHSC based on CAG report; substantive scrutiny of NHS governance and performance

On the basis of a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General, we took evidence from the Department of Health and Social Care (the Department) and from NHS England (NHSE).1 Type: conclusion | Number: 1 | Response status: response_pending Government …

In March 2025, the government announced it would abolish NHS England and change the responsibilities of ICBs.43 In April 2025, NHSE announced that ICBs had to make 50% cost reductions.44 To achieve this, ICBs are planning large scale redundancies and NHSE will transfer some of ICB’s 38 C&AG’s Report, para 2.8 39 Qq 9 and 11 40 Qq 9, 38-39 and 40-41 41 Qq 40-41 42 Q 9 43 C&AG’s Report, paras 4 and 2.2 44 Qq 17-20 13 current functions.45 NHSE’s Model ICB Blueprint paper outlined the refreshed r...

Why linked: PAC inquiry excerpt on abolition of NHS England and ICB responsibilities; directly addresses major NHS restructuring policy announced March 2025

In March 2025, the government announced it would abolish NHS England and change the responsibilities of ICBs.43 In April 2025, NHSE announced that ICBs had to make 50% cost reductions.44 To achieve this, ICBs are planning large scale redundancies and …

Human medicines: register of electronic export certificates

Why linked: Medicines export certificates register; relates to NHS pharmaceutical supply governance

Department of Health and Social Care and MHRA register of electronic export certificates (human).

Health Bill

Why linked: Health Bill Second Reading parliamentary debate with referenced HSC Committee oral evidence on NHS England work; legislative scrutiny of NHS policy

Second Reading [Relevant documents: Oral evidence taken before the Health and Social Care Committee on 20 May, on the Work of NHS England, HC 583 ; Written evidence to the Health and Social Care Committee, on the Health Bill, reported …

Funding healthcare in England in support of the United Kingdom’s resettlement schemes: 2026 to 2027 (accessible)

Why linked: DHSC funding guidance for healthcare in England supporting resettlement schemes; relates to NHS funding policy and service delivery

DHSC funding guidance for healthcare in England supporting resettlement schemes; relates to NHS funding policy and service delivery

In response to: UK resettlement programmes: funding instruction 2026 to 2027

Experiences of NHS healthcare services in England: 10 September 2026

Why linked: NHS patient experience data from ONS survey funded by NHS England; provides evidence on NHS service delivery quality and access

Patient experiences of accessing healthcare from the ONS Health Insight Survey, funded by NHS England. These are official statistics in development.

Physical activity remains insufficiently prioritised across health and care systems despite its clear contribution to preventing illness, improving population health and reducing inequalities. While some integrated care boards (ICBs) have embedded physical activity into strategies, this is not yet consistent or widespread, with physical activity too often being treated as an optional add-on, rather than a core, evidence-based intervention. (Conclusion, Paragraph 12)

Why linked: PAC finding on physical activity prioritisation across NHS and care systems; addresses NHS prevention and commissioning policy

Physical activity remains insufficiently prioritised across health and care systems despite its clear contribution to preventing illness, improving population health and reducing inequalities. While some integrated care boards (ICBs) have embedded physical activity into strategies, this is not yet consistent …

Physical activity can be more effective than drugs in preventing, treating and managing many long-term conditions. Health and care professionals have an important role in encouraging and supporting people to include physical activity in the management of their health. Conversations about physical activity must become a core component of clinical practice to implement current National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance on physical activity. We welcome the recognition from...

Why linked: PAC recommendation on physical activity in NHS; addresses NHS health promotion and care system policy

Physical activity can be more effective than drugs in preventing, treating and managing many long-term conditions. Health and care professionals have an important role in encouraging and supporting people to include physical activity in the management of their health. Conversations …

We recommend that the Department work with integrated care boards (ICBs) to develop a national roll-out of existing best-practice models to support clinicians to have conversations about physical activity with patients, particularly older patients. This should include a communication strategy to reach all health professionals, clear messaging about the benefit and priority assigned to these conversations and resources to support managers to promote it to their staff. (Recommendation, Paragrap...

Why linked: PAC recommendation on ICB-led national rollout of physical activity guidance; addresses NHS commissioning and service policy

We recommend that the Department work with integrated care boards (ICBs) to develop a national roll-out of existing best-practice models to support clinicians to have conversations about physical activity with patients, particularly older patients. This should include a communication strategy …

We recommend that as part of the Modern Service Framework (MSF) for frailty and dementia, the government identifies and sets clear standards for delivering exercise programmes to prevent and reverse frailty. This should include a requirement for integrated care boards (ICBs) to commission evidence-based exercise programmes at the duration and intensity necessary to deliver outcomes. We also ask that the government sets out the accountability arrangements that will accompany the MSF for frailt...

Why linked: Parliamentary recommendation on Modern Service Framework for frailty/dementia exercise standards—NHS service policy within governance scope

We recommend that as part of the Modern Service Framework (MSF) for frailty and dementia, the government identifies and sets clear standards for delivering exercise programmes to prevent and reverse frailty. This should include a requirement for integrated care boards …

Addressing inequalities in healthy life expectancy will require integrated care boards (ICBs) to take a targeted approach with specific interventions targeting communities where inactivity and poor health outcomes are most concentrated. Successful development of population health delivery methods, using hyper-local insight, will ensure maximum value for money is achieved by delivering the most effective interventions in the areas where the need and the benefits are greatest. (Conclusion, Para...

Why linked: Parliamentary recommendation on ICBs addressing health inequalities—NHS commissioning policy on service equity

Addressing inequalities in healthy life expectancy will require integrated care boards (ICBs) to take a targeted approach with specific interventions targeting communities where inactivity and poor health outcomes are most concentrated. Successful development of population health delivery methods, using hyper-local …

The Department should develop a national framework to support integrated care boards and local authorities to commission and scale health interventions delivered in leisure and physical activity settings. This should include preventive, treatment and long-term condition management programmes to support healthy ageing. It should also set out how appropriately qualified physical activity professionals can be safely integrated into care pathways and promote understanding among health professiona...

Why linked: Parliamentary recommendation on national framework for health interventions by ICBs—NHS service commissioning policy

The Department should develop a national framework to support integrated care boards and local authorities to commission and scale health interventions delivered in leisure and physical activity settings. This should include preventive, treatment and long-term condition management programmes to support …

We welcome the intention in the strategic commissioning framework for integrated care boards (ICB) to treat VCSE organisations as partners in the development and delivery of a neighbourhood health service. In its response to this report, we ask that the government provide more details on what support from the strategic commissioning development programme will look like in practice. This should include details of any training or guidance that will be offered to ICBs. (Recommendation, Paragraph...

Why linked: Parliamentary recommendation on ICB strategic commissioning framework with VCSE partners—NHS commissioning governance

We welcome the intention in the strategic commissioning framework for integrated care boards (ICB) to treat VCSE organisations as partners in the development and delivery of a neighbourhood health service. In its response to this report, we ask that the …

Health Bill: role and functions of the restructured DHSC - fact sheet

Why linked: Health Bill fact sheet on restructured DHSC role and functions—central to NHS policy framework

Health Bill fact sheet on restructured DHSC role and functions—central to NHS policy framework

In response to: Health Bill: role and functions of the restructured DHSC - fact sheet

Health Bill

Why linked: Filled the "NHS reorganisation proposals and implementation plans" gap via web research

Information relating to the Health Bill, which was introduced in the House of Commons on 14 May 2026.

Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) (Amendment) Regulations 2026

Why linked: Lords Chamber debate on the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) (Amendment) Regulations 2026, a governing instrument on this thread.

Lords Chamber debate | Lords

Draft Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) (Amendment) Regulations 2026

Why linked: Commons General Committee debate on the same Regulated Activities Regulations 2026.

General Committees debate | Commons

Correspondence from Minister Ahmed - NHS Pilots.

Why linked: Ministerial correspondence on NHS pilots; relates to policy implementation and experimentation within NHS structures

Direction: unknown

NHS reform and the future of the health service

Why linked: DHSC statement on NHS reform and future of health service—ministerial policy announcement directly on NHS strategic direction

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting spoke in London on the steps being taken to reform the health service.

Correspondence to the Department – NHS Pilots

Why linked: Parliamentary committee correspondence to Department on NHS pilots; relates to policy development and scrutiny

Direction: unknown

On the basis of a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General, we took evidence from the Department of Health and Social Care (the Department), NHS England and NHS Resolution on the costs of clinical negligence.1 Our predecessor committees reported on clinical negligence in 2002 and 2017, and both this Committee and our immediate predecessor raised further concerns about progress in tackling the rising costs in its 2024 and 2025 reviews of the Department’s accounts.2

Why linked: PAC committee material examining DHSC, NHS England and NHS Resolution—parliamentary scrutiny of NHS governance and performance

On the basis of a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General, we took evidence from the Department of Health and Social Care (the Department), NHS England and NHS Resolution on the costs of clinical negligence.1 Our predecessor committees reported …

10 Year Health Plan for England

Why linked: Filled the "NHS 10-Year Plan and long-term strategic planning documents" gap via web research

Information relating to the 10 Year Health Plan, published on 3 July 2025.

Support for NHS Patients

Why linked: Commons debate on Support for NHS Patients - policy scrutiny

Commons Chamber debate | Commons

We are concerned that the Department for Health and Social Care and NHS England are still announcing major reforms without either delivery plans or secured funding. We do not accept that it is prudent to make a major change, such as the structural changes that are being made to Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) and NHS England without ensuring there is funding in place to pay for the changes, and without conducting an impact assessment or taking other steps to safeguard value for money. These cha...

Why linked: Parliamentary committee material directly addressing NHS reforms, funding and delivery plans—core to NHS policy governance and scrutiny

We are concerned that the Department for Health and Social Care and NHS England are still announcing major reforms without either delivery plans or secured funding. We do not accept that it is prudent to make a major change, such …

In 2022 our predecessor Committee was told by NHSE that the area where it has most potential to free up clinical time and see more patients is in outpatients services because “80% of the waiting list is tied 18 NIHR Policy Research Unit on the Economics of Health and Social Care Systems and the NIHR Policy Research Unit on Economic Methods of Evaluation in health and care interventions (NWT0040) 19 NHS England, NHS publishes waiting list breakdowns to tackle health inequalities, england.nhs.u...

Why linked: Committee material on NHS outpatient services efficiency and clinical time—service delivery and operational reform

In 2022 our predecessor Committee was told by NHSE that the area where it has most potential to free up clinical time and see more patients is in outpatients services because “80% of the waiting list is tied 18 NIHR …

The commissioning structure for substance misuse and healthcare services is complex and fragmented. This compromises the efficacy of treatment outcomes and continuity of care for prisoners. The current healthcare model, where a single contractor covers all health services and then subcontracts drug treatment, means that commissioners are distant from substance misuse services. (Conclusion, Paragraph 126)

Why linked: Committee material on commissioning structure for substance misuse services; relates to NHS commissioning fragmentation and policy

The commissioning structure for substance misuse and healthcare services is complex and fragmented. This compromises the efficacy of treatment outcomes and continuity of care for prisoners. The current healthcare model, where a single contractor covers all health services and then …

NHS 10-Year Plan – Commons Chamber debate – Hansard

Why linked: The Secretary of State's Commons statement on publication day is the key parliamentary event marking the plan's launch and sets the political record.

We launched the biggest consultation since the NHS began — over 270,000 contributions and almost 2 million visits to the change.nhs.uk website.

On the basis of a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General, we took evidence from the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), NHS England, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) on the threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the UK.2 Prior to the session with the accountable government bodies we also took evidence from the Lord O’Neill of Gatley, who led the Government...

Why linked: PAC committee material on DHSC, NHS England, and UKHSA—parliamentary scrutiny of NHS governance

On the basis of a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General, we took evidence from the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), NHS England, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) at the …

The Department’s accounts do not provide sufficient information on key long–term financial pressures facing the health and social care system. Despite it being jointly responsible for health and social care in England, the Department’s accounts overwhelmingly focus on health services and do not give a clear overarching narrative on social care. The Department’s accounts contain very little information in key areas of interest to us, and to Parliament. This includes a lack of financial data on...

Why linked: Filled the "A consolidated delivery plan and secured funding for NHS England abolition" gap via web research

The Department’s accounts do not provide sufficient information on key long–term financial pressures facing the health and social care system. Despite it being jointly responsible for health and social care in England, the Department’s accounts overwhelmingly focus on health services …

On the basis of a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG), we took evidence from the Department of Health and Social Care (the Department), the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and NHS England on the Department’s Annual Report and Accounts for 2023–24.2

Why linked: PAC committee material on DHSC/health - parliamentary scrutiny of governance

On the basis of a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG), we took evidence from the Department of Health and Social Care (the Department), the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and NHS England on the Department’s Annual Report …

The delays to the accounts were the result of challenges in preparing the accounts of UKHSA and delays in completion of local NHS audits.51 UKHSA was subject to a disclaimed audit opinion in 2021–22 and 2022–23, with significant remedial work being required to complete the 2023–24 accounts, causing delays. NHS England and the Consolidated NHS 47 Committee of Public Accounts, Thirty–First Report of Session 2023–24, Department of Health and Social Care 2022–23 Annual Report and Accounts, HC 459...

Why linked: PAC committee material on NHS audit accounts delays and governance—NHS financial and organisational accountability

The delays to the accounts were the result of challenges in preparing the accounts of UKHSA and delays in completion of local NHS audits.51 UKHSA was subject to a disclaimed audit opinion in 2021–22 and 2022–23, with significant remedial work …

Letter from the Director General, Finance and Group Operations of the Department of Health and Social Care relating to the 2024-25 Revised and 2025-26 Opening Financial Directions to NHS England, 31 March 2025

Why linked: DHSC financial directions letter - NHS budget and funding

Direction: to_committee

NHS England Update

Why linked: Lords debate on NHS England Update, parliamentary scrutiny of NHS strategic direction

Lords Chamber debate | Lords

NHS England Update

Why linked: Lords debate on NHS England Update, parliamentary scrutiny of NHS strategic direction

Lords Chamber debate | Lords

NHS England Update

Why linked: Lords debate on NHS England Update, parliamentary scrutiny of NHS strategic direction

Lords Chamber debate | Lords

NHS Reform

Why linked: Commons debate on NHS Reform – parliamentary scrutiny

Commons Chamber debate | Commons

Correspondence from the Minister of State for Health and Secondary Care relating to the Utilisation of the NHS Estate

Why linked: Ministerial correspondence on NHS estate utilisation; relates to NHS resource management and service delivery

Direction: unknown

The Department of Health and Social Care and NHS England should commission NICE to develop comprehensive guidelines for all reproductive health conditions. Those guidelines should be communicated to GPs and made accessible to patients through the NHS website to allow informed patient-GP discussions. Adherence to these guidelines by medical practitioners and any barriers to following them must be monitored, including their usefulness to patients. (Paragraph 145) A fragmented commissioning system

Why linked: Health and Social Care Committee material on reproductive health guidelines, relates to NHS service standards and clinical governance

The Department of Health and Social Care and NHS England should commission NICE to develop comprehensive guidelines for all reproductive health conditions. Those guidelines should be communicated to GPs and made accessible to patients through the NHS website to allow …

NHS Plan: Consultation

Why linked: Lords debate on NHS Plan Consultation - strategic planning document central to scope

Lords Chamber debate | Lords

PM speech on the NHS: 12 September 2024

Why linked: PM speech on NHS - government strategic direction

Prime Minister Keir Starmer delivers a speech on the NHS at the King's Fund today.

NHS: Independent Investigation – Commons Chamber statement – Hansard

Why linked: The Secretary of State's Commons statement on publication of the Darzi Report is the parliamentary record of the reform programme's starting point.

The NHS has not been able to meet its promises to treat patients on time for almost a decade; patients have never been more dissatisfied with the service they receive.

Government Policy on Health

Why linked: Lords Chamber debate on Government Policy on Health; parliamentary scrutiny of health policy affecting NHS

Lords Chamber debate | Lords

Government Policy on Health

Why linked: Commons Chamber debate on Government Policy on Health; parliamentary scrutiny of NHS policy

Commons Chamber debate | Commons

The delays to the accounts were the combined result of issues with the accounts of a key arm’s-length body (UKHSA) and delays in completion of local NHS audits. The accounts for UKHSA, NHS England and the Consolidated NHS Provider Accounts all need to be complete before the Department’s group accounts can be finalised. NHS England and the Consolidated NHS Provider Accounts in turn rely on the individual audits of 148 NHS commissioners and 212 NHS providers, which are incorporated into their o...

Why linked: PAC committee material on NHS audit delays and accounts governance—NHS financial and organisational accountability

The delays to the accounts were the combined result of issues with the accounts of a key arm’s-length body (UKHSA) and delays in completion of local NHS audits. The accounts for UKHSA, NHS England and the Consolidated NHS Provider Accounts …

We challenged NHS England and the Department on the extent they were acting on the proposals to improve audit timeliness set out in their 2022–23 governance statements. NHS England stated that it had regular update meetings with all audit firms, as well as working with the Department and cross-government groups looking at local audit delivery. 24 Q 58 25 Qq 79, 84 26 Q 81 27 Q 94 28 Qq 83–84 29 Q 84; Report by the Comptroller and Auditor General, NHS England Annual Report and Accounts 2022–23...

Why linked: Committee material on Public Accounts Committee challenge to NHS England and DHSC on governance and audit timeliness; substantive scrutiny of NHS governance

We challenged NHS England and the Department on the extent they were acting on the proposals to improve audit timeliness set out in their 2022–23 governance statements. NHS England stated that it had regular update meetings with all audit firms, …

When we pointed out that it was not always the case that social care got the right weighting in ICS structures because they are health-led, the Department acknowledged that the system was not working everywhere.10 The National Care Forum called for the appointment of adult social care leads on all Integrated Care Boards (statutory bodies that are responsible for planning and funding most NHS services in an area) to correct the tendency for everything to be viewed solely through a healthcare l...

Why linked: Committee material on social care weighting in integrated care systems—integrated health and social care governance

When we pointed out that it was not always the case that social care got the right weighting in ICS structures because they are health-led, the Department acknowledged that the system was not working everywhere.10 The National Care Forum called …

Frontline health and social care staff do not only deal with immediate medical needs. People also present to the health service with issues that relate to unmet social needs, which can in turn, over time, develop into medical needs. Increased use of social prescribing can both relieve pressure on clinical pathways and protect good health through enhancing people’s connections with, and ability to participate in activities in their local communities—particularly for people who often lack resou...

Why linked: Committee material on health and social care staff and social needs—integrated health and social care delivery policy

Frontline health and social care staff do not only deal with immediate medical needs. People also present to the health service with issues that relate to unmet social needs, which can in turn, over time, develop into medical needs. Increased …

This committee has highlighted many times in the years since 2016 that DHSC has focused on short-term survival of NHS services, while neglecting long-term sustainability, 78 Qq 49–51 79 Q 94 80 Q 91; C&AG’s Report, para 4.2 81 C&AG’s Report, paras 3.17 and 3.19 82 Q 109 83 Q 109; C&AG’s Report, para 18 84 Qq 109, 110 85 C&AG’s Report, para 18 86 Q 110; C&AG’s Report, para 18 87 Q 110 20 The New Hospital Programme and has criticised DHSC’s lack of long-term planning for capital investment.88 A...

Why linked: Committee material on DHSC long-term sustainability strategy for NHS — directly addresses NHS strategic planning and governance

This committee has highlighted many times in the years since 2016 that DHSC has focused on short-term survival of NHS services, while neglecting long-term sustainability, 78 Qq 49–51 79 Q 94 80 Q 91; C&AG’s Report, para 4.2 81 C&AG’s …

The Department recognised that there is an element of accountability in its relationship with the NHS, and said it was holding NHS England to account through the trajectories set out in numerous recovery plans, from primary care to elective recovery. The Department believed that the NHS was on trajectory to meet targets, but this was dependent on meeting ongoing challenges.26 NHS England confirmed that it was particularly worried about the next winter.27 When asked whether or not it was on tr...

Why linked: Committee material on departmental accountability for NHS performance — governance and accountability arrangements

The Department recognised that there is an element of accountability in its relationship with the NHS, and said it was holding NHS England to account through the trajectories set out in numerous recovery plans, from primary care to elective recovery. …

New integrated care boards and partnerships could struggle to prioritise mental health services and support, in the face of funding pressures and the need to reduce backlogs for physical health services. ICBs will be responsible for bringing forward many of the ambitious programmes for mental health services in their area, for example, ensuring data sharing across local NHS, local government and voluntary sector organisations, and workforce planning and deployment. Many of the challenges that...

Why linked: Health and Social Care Committee material on integrated care boards and mental health funding, relevant to NHS reorganisation and resource allocation

New integrated care boards and partnerships could struggle to prioritise mental health services and support, in the face of funding pressures and the need to reduce backlogs for physical health services. ICBs will be responsible for bringing forward many of …

Preventive and public health services for mental health have not had the same priority and focus on improvement as NHS mental health treatment services. Previous government strategies have emphasised the importance of preventive services for mental health and wellbeing, alongside treatment for mental illness. However, we, and many stakeholders, are concerned that preventive services have not been given the same priority and focus as NHS treatment services. From 2018–19 to 2022–23, the local a...

Why linked: Committee material on mental health preventive services - NHS service delivery policy

Preventive and public health services for mental health have not had the same priority and focus on improvement as NHS mental health treatment services. Previous government strategies have emphasised the importance of preventive services for mental health and wellbeing, alongside …

When asked, NHSE told us that it would welcome a definition of ‘parity of esteem’, which could encompass parity in funding, waiting times and outcomes, as well as the provision of data and information on services. The Department contended that it was not always helpful to have a clear definition and said that its current position is not to provide a specific definition.47 39 Qq 147–148; C&AG’s Report, para 18 40 House of Commons Committee of Public Accounts report, Introducing integrated care...

Why linked: Committee material on mental health parity of esteem and NHS funding - service standards

When asked, NHSE told us that it would welcome a definition of ‘parity of esteem’, which could encompass parity in funding, waiting times and outcomes, as well as the provision of data and information on services. The Department contended that …

We also asked the FRC about the risks local audit delays cause to NHS accounts. The FRC emphasised the challenges the health sector faces due to structural changes in the last year.29 This will be reflected in the NHS requiring audits of the three months Clinical Commissioning Groups were in place up to June 2022, and of the nine months of the Integrated Care Boards that replaced them for the rest of 2022–23.30 The FRC emphasised the interdependencies where the same pool of auditors works acr...

Why linked: Committee material on local audit challenges affecting NHS accounts; relates to NHS governance and structural changes

We also asked the FRC about the risks local audit delays cause to NHS accounts. The FRC emphasised the challenges the health sector faces due to structural changes in the last year.29 This will be reflected in the NHS requiring …

NHS: Performance and Innovation

Why linked: Lords debate on NHS: Performance and Innovation, parliamentary scrutiny of NHS performance and strategic direction

Lords Chamber debate | Lords

NHS: Performance and Innovation

Why linked: Lords debate on NHS: Performance and Innovation, parliamentary scrutiny of NHS performance and strategic direction

Lords Chamber debate | Lords

On the basis of a Report by the Comptroller and Auditor General, we took evidence from the Department of Health & Social Care (the Department) on alcohol treatment services.1 We also took evidence from Alice Wiseman, Director of Public Health, Gateshead Council, and Board Member and Alcohol Policy Lead, Association of Directors of Public Health, Professor Dame Carol Black, author of the government’s independent review of drugs, Clare Taylor representing Turning Point and Collective Voice, and...

Why linked: PAC committee material on alcohol treatment services within NHS—service delivery policy within NHS scope

On the basis of a Report by the Comptroller and Auditor General, we took evidence from the Department of Health & Social Care (the Department) on alcohol treatment services.1 We also took evidence from Alice Wiseman, Director of Public Health, …

In July 2022, the Chief Executive of the NHS, wrote to all Chief Executives of NHS trusts, NHS Foundation Trusts and Integrated Care Boards stating that the 62-day cancer backlog target should be a critical priority for the remainder of the year.13 This instruction has not led to the results NHSE hoped for. In our session NHSE had to acknowledge that it no longer expected to meet the target by March 2023.14 Over-optimism in recovery assumptions

Why linked: Committee material on NHS CEO directive regarding cancer backlog; relates to NHS service delivery and governance

In July 2022, the Chief Executive of the NHS, wrote to all Chief Executives of NHS trusts, NHS Foundation Trusts and Integrated Care Boards stating that the 62-day cancer backlog target should be a critical priority for the remainder of …

Future of the NHS

Why linked: Parliamentary debate on Future of the NHS - directly on-topic policy scrutiny

Commons Chamber debate | Commons

These reforms do nothing to address the longstanding tension caused by differences in funding and accountability arrangements between the NHS and social care. The Department, which has policy responsibility for both health and social care, is showing a worrying lack of leadership, and it is not clear who will intervene if relationships between local partners break down. The interdependency between health and social care services is well established. However, we are concerned these reforms wil...

Why linked: Health and Social Care Committee material on NHS-social care funding and accountability tensions, relevant to NHS policy integration

These reforms do nothing to address the longstanding tension caused by differences in funding and accountability arrangements between the NHS and social care. The Department, which has policy responsibility for both health and social care, is showing a worrying lack …

There is a well-established interdependency between health and local government, with local authorities responsible for managing local social care markets. The stability and resilience of social services have a direct impact on the NHS. High-quality social care, if available, can keep people independent, healthy, and out of hospital.31 Despite the aspiration for ICSs to better integrate health and care, we are concerned the underlying reforms do not address long-standing differences between t...

Why linked: Committee material on health and local government interdependency - governance and integration

There is a well-established interdependency between health and local government, with local authorities responsible for managing local social care markets. The stability and resilience of social services have a direct impact on the NHS. High-quality social care, if available, can …

NHS England noted the importance of ICSs’ Integrated Care Boards working constructively with the full range of local partners, including local government, elected members, community groups and the voluntary sector.40 We highlighted the necessity of MPs being able to raise issues on behalf of their constituents who encounter problems with health and care services, but noted members’ experiences of trying to engage their local NHS have at times been inconsistent and unsatisfactory.41 NHS Englan...

Why linked: Committee material on ICBs and local partnership governance - NHS organisational structure

NHS England noted the importance of ICSs’ Integrated Care Boards working constructively with the full range of local partners, including local government, elected members, community groups and the voluntary sector.40 We highlighted the necessity of MPs being able to raise …

NHS: Access to Treatments

Why linked: Lords debate on NHS: Access to Treatments, covers service delivery and clinical governance

Lords Chamber debate | Lords

The NHS must ensure that all staff have access to adequate facilities. At the minimum, all staff should have access to 24/7 hot food and drinks, free parking, and places to rest, store their belongings, shower and change, and take breaks with colleagues. The NHS should conduct a welfare provision assessment to consider how to move towards this. (Paragraph 78) 60 Workforce: recruitment, training and retention in health and social care

Why linked: Committee material on NHS staff facilities and working conditions — addresses NHS workforce policy

The NHS must ensure that all staff have access to adequate facilities. At the minimum, all staff should have access to 24/7 hot food and drinks, free parking, and places to rest, store their belongings, shower and change, and take …

Whilst we welcome changes made to the NHS contract that give every NHS worker a “day one” right to request flexible working, it is clear that this has been insufficient to make flexible working a daily reality in the NHS. No NHS employee should be choosing to locum or work for an agency to regain control over their working life. The NHS must commit to a review of flexible working arrangements in all Trusts, with a view to ensuring that within 12 months all NHS staff have similar flexibilities...

Why linked: Committee material on NHS workforce flexible working policy — directly addresses NHS employee policy

Whilst we welcome changes made to the NHS contract that give every NHS worker a “day one” right to request flexible working, it is clear that this has been insufficient to make flexible working a daily reality in the NHS. …

Three Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) paid special severance payments without obtaining the required approvals.47 The C&AG qualified his regularity audit opinion on the NHS England 2020–21 Annual Report and Accounts in respect of one of these, a special severance payment made by Berkshire West CCG to its former Accountable Officer.48 These types of payments should be exceptional and require HM Treasury approval beforehand because they are often novel and contentious. The Department told ...

Why linked: PAC committee material on CCG severance payments and NHS England governance—NHS financial governance and accountability

Three Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) paid special severance payments without obtaining the required approvals.47 The C&AG qualified his regularity audit opinion on the NHS England 2020–21 Annual Report and Accounts in respect of one of these, a special severance payment …

Health and Care Bill: NHS payment scheme

Why linked: Health and Care Bill explanatory note on NHS payment scheme - governing instrument

Health and Care Bill explanatory note on NHS payment scheme - governing instrument

In response to: Health and Care Bill factsheets

Health and Care Bill

Why linked: Health and Care Bill Report debate - primary legislation governance

Report (2nd Day) 11:50:00 Relevant documents: 15th, 16th and 19th Reports from the Delegated Powers Committee, 9th Report from the Constitution Committee Clause 20: General functions Amendment 36 Moved by 36: Clause 20, page 21, line 25, at end insert— …

Health and Care Bill

Why linked: Health and Care Bill Report debate - primary legislation governance

Report (2nd Day) (Continued) 16:03:00 Clause 39: General power to direct NHS England Amendment 83 Moved by 83: Clause 39, page 47, line 37, at end insert— “(4) A direction under section 13ZC may not be given in relation to …

Health and Care Bill

Why linked: Health and Care Bill Committee debate; directly addresses 2022 legislation governing NHS structure and operations

Committee (9th Day) 16:11:00 Relevant documents: 15th, 16th and 19th Reports from the Delegated Powers Committee, 9th Report from the Constitution Committee The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Health and Social Care (Lord Kamall) (Con): My Lords, I should …

Future of the NHS

Why linked: Westminster Hall debate on Future of the NHS—parliamentary scrutiny and strategic direction

Westminster Hall debate | Commons

Health and Care Bill

Why linked: Health and Care Bill Committee debate with focus on NHS England mandate; directly addresses 2022 legislation affecting NHS

Committee (2nd Day) 12:10:00 Relevant documents: 15th and 16th Reports from the Delegated Powers Committee, 9th Report from the Constitution Committee Clause 3: NHS England mandate: general Amendment 11 Moved by 11: Clause 3, page 2, line 20, at end …

We further recommend that NHS England & Improvement hold Clinical Commissioning Groups, which have consistently failed to meet national expectations, to account on key measures such as expenditure, waiting times and access rates. National ambitions should be raised in line with the best performing areas so that best practice becomes universal practice. This is essential to ensuring that provision of children and young people’s mental health services does not remain a ‘postcode lottery’.

Why linked: Committee material on Clinical Commissioning Groups accountability—NHS organisational governance and accountability

We further recommend that NHS England & Improvement hold Clinical Commissioning Groups, which have consistently failed to meet national expectations, to account on key measures such as expenditure, waiting times and access rates. National ambitions should be raised in line …

We therefore recommend that the Department of Health and Social Care fully fund and scale up the roll out of Mental Health Support Teams to cover two thirds of schools in England by 2024/25 and 100% by 2027/28.

Why linked: Committee recommendation on DHSC funding for Mental Health Support Teams; relates to NHS service delivery policy

We therefore recommend that the Department of Health and Social Care fully fund and scale up the roll out of Mental Health Support Teams to cover two thirds of schools in England by 2024/25 and 100% by 2027/28. Type: conclusion …

We recommend that the Department of Health and Social Care fund and roll out open access models to every area across the country so that there is a consistent, comprehensive community offer to complement available school-based and clinical support across England. The hubs should also offer outreach support to vulnerable groups and should be integrated with specialist children and young people’s mental health services with a clear step down/step up relationship. National standards for the prov...

Why linked: Committee recommendation on DHSC funding for mental health services in NHS; relates to NHS service delivery and policy

We recommend that the Department of Health and Social Care fund and roll out open access models to every area across the country so that there is a consistent, comprehensive community offer to complement available school-based and clinical support across …

NHS Efficiency

Why linked: Westminster Hall debate on NHS Efficiency—parliamentary scrutiny of operational and organisational policy

Westminster Hall debate | Commons

NHS Update

Why linked: Parliamentary debate on NHS update; parliamentary scrutiny of current NHS policy and performance

Commons Chamber debate | Commons

NHS-funded nursing care rates for 2019 to 2021

Why linked: DHSC and NHS letters on NHS-funded nursing care rates; relates to NHS commissioning and service delivery

Letters from the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) and the NHS to clinical commissioning groups and local authorities.

NHS: Targets

Why linked: Lords debate on NHS Targets - service delivery standards and performance

Lords Chamber debate | Lords

NHS: New Technology

Why linked: Commons debate on NHS: New Technology, covers NHS service innovation and delivery

Commons Chamber debate | Commons

NHS: New Technology

Why linked: Commons debate on NHS: New Technology, covers NHS service innovation and delivery

Commons Chamber debate | Commons

NHS Mandate

Why linked: Lords debate on NHS Mandate, covers strategic planning and governance of NHS England

Lords Chamber debate | Lords

Government Mandate for the NHS

Why linked: Commons debate on Government Mandate for the NHS; directly concerns NHS strategic direction and government accountability

Commons Chamber debate | Commons

Health and Social Care Act 2012

Why linked: Parliamentary debate on Health and Social Care Act 2012 - primary legislation governance

Question 11:28:00 Asked by Lord Hunt of Kings Heath: To ask Her Majesty’s Government, in the light of the Prime Minister’s criticism of the regulatory framework established under the Health and Social Care Act 2012, what plans they have, if …

NHS: Equitable Access

Why linked: Lords debate on NHS Equitable Access – service delivery policy scrutiny

Lords Chamber debate | Lords

NHS 70th Anniversary

Why linked: Westminster Hall debate on NHS 70th Anniversary - contextual policy discussion

Westminster Hall debate | Commons

NHS in England

Why linked: Parliamentary debate on NHS in England, core scrutiny of NHS policy and performance

Commons Chamber debate | Commons

NHS: Debt

Why linked: Lords debate on NHS Debt – parliamentary scrutiny of NHS financial sustainability

Lords Chamber debate | Lords

Health and Social Care Act 2012 (Consequential Amendments) Order 2013

Why linked: Parliamentary debate on Health and Social Care Act 2012 Consequential Amendments Order, implementation of key NHS legislation

Considered in Grand Committee 16:20:00 Moved By Earl Howe: That the Grand Committee do report to the House that it has considered the Health and Social Care Act 2012 (Consequential Amendments) Order 2013. Relevant documents: 16th Report from the Joint …

Health and Social Care Bill

Why linked: Health and Social Care Bill Report stage debate on NHS Commissioning Board; foundational legislation debate

Report (4th Day) Relevant documents: 18th and 22nd Reports from the Constitution Committee 15:39:00 Clause 22 : The NHS Commissioning Board: further provision Amendment 71 Moved by 71: Clause 22, page 24, line 27, at end insert— “( ) For …

Health and Social Care Bill

Why linked: Health and Social Care Bill Report stage debate (2012), foundational NHS legislation

Report (3rd Day) Relevant documents: 18th and 22nd Reports from the Constitution Committee 15:15:00 Clause 19 : Regulations as to the exercise of functions by the Board or clinical commissioning groups Amendment 38A Moved by 38A: Clause 19, page 14, …

Health and Social Care Bill

Why linked: Health and Social Care Bill Committee debate - primary legislation instrument

Committee (10th Day) 15:07:00 Relevant documents : 19th r eport from the Delegated Powers Committee , 18th r eport from the Constitution Committee . Clause 27 : Appointment of directors of public health Amendment 225 Moved by 225: Clause 27, …

Health and Social Care Bill

Why linked: Health and Social Care Bill Committee debate (2011), primary legislation foundational to NHS governance

Committee (10th Day) 20:34:00 Clause 33 : Effect of code Amendments 236AB and 236AC not moved. Clause 33 agreed. Clauses 34 to 36 agreed. Clause 37 : After-care Amendment 236B Moved by 236B: Clause 37, leave out Clause 37 and …

Health and Social Care Bill

Why linked: Health and Social Care Bill Committee debate (2011); foundational legislation debate affecting NHS governance

Committee (7th Day) (Continued) 21:28:00 Amendment 104 Moved by 104: Clause 20, page 17, line 14, at end insert— “( ) In discharging its duty under this section the Board shall, after consultation with Monitor under subsection 171(4) and the …

Health and Social Care Bill

Why linked: Health and Social Care Bill Committee debate (2011), primary legislation foundational to NHS governance structure

Committee (1st Day) Relevant document : 19th Report from the Delegated Powers Committee . 15:08:00 Amendment 1 Moved by 1: Before Clause 1, insert the following new Clause— “Principles of the Health Service in England (1) Any person or body …