WIREDGOV

Niall Dickson, chief executive of the NHS Confederation, which represents organisations across the healthcare sector, commented on the remarks made by Simon Stevens, chief executive of NHS England, on the latest winter performance figures

“Simon Stevens is right, but we have to stop describing the problem and start putting forward solutions.

“There is now a danger everyone starts to accept the unacceptable.

“A recent poll of our members showed nearly two-thirds believe this to be the most difficult winter in their careers, and that's despite extensive planning.

“And of course, the last few days have been horrendous in some areas of the country, not least for community staff going out to support the most vulnerable.”

Notes to editors:

• The NHS Confederation represents 85 per cent of NHS providers and commissioners. The organisation has nearly 500 members across health and social care, including hospitals, community and mental health providers, ambulance trusts and independent sector organisations providing NHS care. It is the only membership body to bring together and speak on behalf of the whole NHS.
• Follow the NHS Confederation press office on Twitter @NHSConfed_Press.
• A full list of NHS Confederation press releases and statements can be accessed at its media centre.
• For media queries, contact Neil Durham (Media and Communications Manager - 020 7799 8671 / neil.durham@nhsconfed.org); Charlotte George (Senior Media Officer - 020 7799 8664 / charlotte.george@nhsconfed.org) or Dan Keel (Head of Communications - 020 7799 8637 / daniel.keel@nhsconfed.org). For out-of-hours media enquiries, please call the Duty Press Officer on 07880 500 726.