Responding to the National Audit Office report published today (Thursday) on NHS ambulance services, UNISON head of health Christina McAnea said: “Across the entire NHS, the picture is the same. There’s simply not enough money to cope with growing demand.
“The lack of investment in social care means ambulance and other NHS emergency services are being overwhelmed. And trusts are finding it increasingly difficult to recruit and retain experienced paramedics.
“The NHS isn’t just struggling because of the time of year. It’s in crisis all year round. The health service hasn’t been getting the funding it needs and council care budgets have been slashed.
“It’s time the government stopped pretending there’s enough money in the system, and came up with an immediate injection of cash to enable staff to deliver the care that’s needed.”
Media contacts:
Liz Chinchen T: 0207 121 5463 M: 07778 158175 E: l.chinchen@unison.co.uk
Alan Weaver T: 0207 121 5555 M: 07939 143310 E: a.weaver@unison.co.uk
