Responding to Sir Simon Stevens’ speech at the NHS Providers annual conference and exhibition, the chief executive of NHS Providers, Chris Hopson, said:

“Sir Simon Stevens was absolutely right to point out that even at the peak of the pandemic the NHS was never a 'COVID-only' service, and that recently we have seen strong progress towards restoring normal levels of routine care such as planned operations.

“As cases rise and admissions for COVID-19 increase, there is no question that the challenges trusts face heading into winter are formidable, and the most difficult days may be ahead of us.

“It was good to hear about the growing focus on the long term consequences of COVID-19, with funding for “long COVID” clinics to support capacity - including in the community - to offer patients holistic support.

“We also note that an announcement on capital funding for the eradication of mental health dormitory wards will be forthcoming in next few days.

“This is long overdue and we look forward to hearing the details.”