1 of 10 quick reflections on NHS year just past. I remain astounded and humbled by commitment, professionalism & resilience of frontline NHS staff. We have, once again, asked them to go way beyond the call of duty...far too many times. They have once again responded brilliantly!
2 of 10 We’ve talked a lot this year about ensuring frontline NHS staff have a reasonable & sustainable workload. Just not sure we’re any closer to that at the end of the year compared to the beginning. That’s a real worry. We must find ways of quickly de-pressuring the service.
3 of 10 Trust leaders tell us they are most worried about large, persistent and growing workforce shortages. Lots of work going on looking at long term pipeline. But is there enough pacy, focussed, well co-ordinated work on short term solutions that will make a difference now?
4 of 10 It was great to see extra investment in the NHS after the longest and deepest financial squeeze in NHS history. But too many people are ignoring the fact that the increase just keeps pace with growing demand and cost. The extra £ is very welcome but it’s no bonanza.
5 of 10 Trusts report that, once again, demand for the healthcare they provide continues to rise inexorably. Good to see some local systems beginning to bend demand curve. But are we honestly & effectively facing up to the size and shape of future demand given the demographics?
6 of 10 Events of last year mean NHS now facing a major new risk - inflated expectations it can’t meet. We should and must be ambitious. But if the NHS frontline is set an impossible task it doesn’t meet, critics will argue that model is broken, however much extra money is found.
7 of 10 Struck by how many old NHS hands told me last year that context was more challenging than they could ever remember. But also struck how all senior NHS leaders, especially new generation, view their roles as a unique privilege and are determined to succeed for patients.
8 of 10 Very struck by how pressured frontline leaders/staff are just “keeping ship upright”. Lots of people ‘from the centre’ telling them to do this more & that extra. But it’s taking 110% of time, effort & energy just to find workforce, maintain quality & meet growing demand.
9 of 10 Major challenge to stay optimistic and resilient at frontline given current pressure and challenges. Made more difficult by constant narrative that NHS is failing on targets and money and this is getting worse not better. We have to reverse this soon, for all our sakes!
10 of 10 Important to end reflections on positive optimistic note. Overwhelming impression as I do my regular visits of a passionate and committed workforce determined to provide outstanding patient care, however challenging the environment! NHS vital public service for us all!
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