The UK’s vote to leave the EU has moved the country into uncharted waters, raising questions over what Brexit will mean for the NHS.
Far-reaching interlinks between EU and domestic policy mean the health and care sector must be clear on what the implications could be and seek to influence decisions to safeguard its future.
The NHS Confederation is uniquely placed to do so.
Through our networks and in association with the NHS European Office, NHS Employers, and our offices in Wales and Northern Ireland, we are the only national body able to bring together technical expertise with the voice of the NHS leadership, providing a strong voice for commissioners and providers in Westminster and Brussels.
Our expertise, which spans EU issues, employment practice and domestic politics, leaves us ideally placed to advocate for the NHS’s interests, advise on ways to mitigate risks and keep you abreast of the latest developments.
What we're doing
As the government’s Brexit strategy takes shape, we are working to ensure your views are front and centre of the debate and decision-making by:
- Conducting regular temperature checks of health leaders throughout the Brexit process revealing their views. The first of our reports is here.
- Raising your concerns with officials working on the detail and pressing your views with MPs and Peers as they debate and scrutinise ongoing Brexit negotiations.
- Making the case for the NHS in Brussels through our NHS European Office.
- Engaging with you on what potential changes may mean and ensuring we have fully understood the potential impact of proposals under discussion.
- Supporting the newly established NHS England EU transition team, the Department of Health and other arm’s-length bodies, and NHS Providers to ensure the NHS speaks with one voice on these crucial issues.
- Working as part of a large coalition of organisations across health and social care – known as the Cavendish Coalition – to influence and lobby on post-EU referendum matters and to provide those leading the negotiations with expertise and knowledge on the issues affecting the health and social care workforce.
Visit our dedicated pages to find out more about our work on ensuring the health and care sector are ready for Brexit.