11 March 2022
The pandemic laid bare and exacerbated the terrible strain our rheumatology workforce has been under for many years. The workforce crisis is now the biggest challenge facing the NHS. To ensure everyone gets the rheumatology care they need and deserve, comprehensive action must be taken.
The UK Government has publicly committed to workforce investment and a long-term plan for workforce. Without sustainable and long-term footing in primary legislation, it will be difficult for successive Governments to deliver meaningful and measurable workforce promises for our rheumatology multidisciplinary teams.
Amendment 29B to the Health and Care Bill, supported by more than 100 health and social care organisations, will make it a legal duty for the Government to publish projections of NHS workforce gaps every two to three years and helps hold it to account, ensuring enough doctors and nurses are trained to provide vital care for people across the country.
How you can help
This call to action has now closed. Thank you to everyone who contacted their local MP.
The Health and Care Bill received Royal Assent, meaning it was passed by Parliament, on the 28 July 2022. The Bill promotes NHS integration, gives new powers to the Secretary of State, and introduces targeted changes to public health, social care, and quality and safety matters.
Disappointingly, the government rejected BSR-backed amendments to the Bill that would strengthen workforce planning and increase transparency around NHS workforce numbers. Despite this setback, BSR will continue to campaign on this issue. For more information on our workforce campaign, please visit our policy pages.