Responding to the latest NHS England data published today (Thursday) showing a record 7.75m people are awaiting treatment, UNISON head of health Sara Gorton said:
“The data paints a grim picture of what lies ahead.
“Staff have been working in exceptionally challenging circumstances, with many suffering burnout. And all this is happening well ahead of winter and its extra pressures.
“Delivering patient services through another record-breakingly bad winter cannot come at the expense of the wellbeing of health workers.
“Without reassurance and realistic surge plans, staff will struggle and patients undoubtedly suffer.”
Notes to editors:
– UNISON is the UK’s largest union with more than 1.3 million members providing public services in education, local government, the NHS, police service and energy. They are employed in the public, voluntary and private sectors.
Media contacts:
Fatima Ayad M: 07508 080383 E: f.ayad@unison.co.uk
Liz Chinchen M: 07778 158175 E: press@unison.co.uk