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Royal College responds to 10 Year Health Plan for England

The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow comments on the publication of the UK Government’s 10 Year Health Plan for England.

Published: 03 July 2025
Category:

Workforce

The UK Government have today (Thursday 3 July 2025) launched the 10 Year Health Plan for England. The Plan sets out the priorities the government will look to take in the NHS in the coming years. 

The plan was set in motion following a national conversation in response to the review by Lord Darzi in 2024, in which he diagnosed the NHS as being in ‘critical condition’. It highlighted challenges within the workforce and stalling health in the UK. However, it was given with a message of hope that the NHS could thrive with urgent action. 

Our College welcomes the publication of this plan as it sets out ambitious targets to achieve three major shifts within the NHS: moving care from hospitals and into communities, prioritising digital health and bringing focus to prevention. 

College President, Professor Hany Eteiba said: "Today we mark the potential for major reform across the NHS in England and while ambitious, we recognise that success will be defined by a commitment to real investment in people and communities. 

"As a nation, we have seen the decline in population health and prioritising effective prevention by connecting health professionals with the community will be key to turning the tide. However, this requires significant investment in our workforce and NHS infrastructure, while also recognising that prevention goes beyond the health service. 

"Lord Darzi’s review emphasised the value of all staff working in the NHS, who we know will play a crucial role in reform. Every day, NHS staff show up to work with unwavering commitment, compassion and resilience, often going above and beyond without asking for more. It is not always about funding but about recognition, respect, deep appreciation and feeling sincerely valued. This is only the beginning of a long journey to rebuild the health service, and we will continue to engage with the government to ensure that their voices remain at the heart of the process. 

"Our focus over the coming days and weeks will be to digest the details of the plan and continue to update our Fellows and Members.”