Regulators need to take better account of the escalating operational pressures that trusts are facing, following the findings of NHS Providers' latest annual regulation and oversight survey.

A pivotal moment for regulation shows trusts are experiencing intense pressures on quality, finances, performance and staffing against a backdrop of 'unrealistic' regulatory demands. Trust leaders report that regulators are not doing enough to understand and help address the complexity and challenges of the operating environment.

 

 

"Regulators have shown openness to working constructively with trusts, but this year's survey results indicate that regulatory requirements are detached from operational realities. Regulation needs to take better account of the level of challenge and risk trusts are managing, and better enable them to focus on improving quality of care.
 

"Trust leaders are particularly concerned about unrealistic expectations and the burden of meeting what are at times duplicative regulatory requirements.

"As the health and care system continues to face significant challenges, it's vital that regulation adds value and supports improvement rather than creating additional pressure. We look forward to continued engagement with regulators to ensure the system works together for the benefit of patients and service users."