Responding to a speech by Wes Streeting MP, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, at Labour Party Conference 2024, the chief executive of NHS Providers, Sir Julian Hartley said:

"Due to hard work by frontline NHS staff, we’re seeing some much-needed progress on ambulance response times, long waits for treatment and record numbers of patients receiving diagnostic tests, cancer referrals and treatments.

"But trust leaders also know that to make a bigger dent in waiting lists and improve care for all patients, the health service needs more investment to tackle major workforce challenges, crumbling buildings, and out-of-date equipment.

"The renewed focus on creating a digital NHS, focusing on prevention and public health, and ensuring patients are cared for closer to home is a step in the right direction.

"Leaders across the NHS also want to see urgent action to address the underlying factors driving ill health and economic inactivity, which are compounding pressures on overstretched health and care services.

"With Lord Darzi’s diagnosis of the health service now published and the 10-year plan for health on the horizon, it’s vital the government works with trust leaders to tackle the many challenges facing health and social care."