We trust the NHS every day with our lives and over seven decades it has changed radically, and must continue doing so to ensure it best meets people’s health and care needs. This briefing describes how secondary care services work within the NHS in England – that is, the NHS acute, ambulance, community and mental health service providers – and how they work to deliver world-class care within hospitals and community based settings:

• Who are the NHS foundation trusts and trusts delivering secondary and specialised care in England?
• How are these organisations responding to changing needs?
• How can you get to know your local NHS?
• What are the local and national organisations that make up the NHS?
• What are the key local issues likely to be and how do these translate into national policy making?
• What are the national and local priorities for NHS foundation trusts and trusts?

It is vital for local politicians to work closely with the NHS providers serving their community. NHS providers need the help of their councillors and MPs to develop plans for future provision, to communicate the need for change, and to present their challenges and priorities nationally.