The Medical Defence Union (MDU), of which the DDU is a part, has welcomed the Government’s announcement that NHS Practitioner Health (NHSPH) will be funded for a further three years, ensuring that its vital services will be provided to the NHS workforce, up to 2029.
This was confirmed in the House of Commons by health minister Karin Smyth MP, in response to a question submitted by the Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Healthcare Workers, Cat Eccles MP.
Tom Reynolds, Director of Policy and Communications at the MDU commented:
“For months the MDU has been campaigning to get MPs and Ministers to support the long-term future of NHS Practitioner Health, so we are absolutely delighted that the Government has announced its commitment to ensure its future for a further three years.
“NHS Practitioner Health has had an overwhelmingly positive impact and provides a vital service to healthcare professionals in England who need specialist help and may struggle to access support elsewhere. This is so important as the demands of working for the NHS can be immense, and healthcare workers face many challenges which may impact their personal health and wellbeing.
“That is why the MDU is dedicated to influencing healthcare policy in Westminster. We want our members voices to be heard. Ensuring support for NHS healthcare professionals’ health and wellbeing is one of three key priorities in our Agenda for Change policy paper.
“I am proud that the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Healthcare Workers, for which the Medical Defence Union is group secretariat, is shaping the conversation around key issues in healthcare that affect our members profession and practice. We are extremely lucky to work with MPs across all political parties, such as Cat Eccles, who understand the importance of funding programmes and services that ensure support for healthcare professionals when they feel at risk of, or experience burnout. The NHS, regulators like the GMC, and all those involved in the delivery of healthcare must play their part in taking care of the people who care for us.”
