RCN comment on False Economy report

Published: 02 August 2011

Dr Peter Carter, Chief Executive & General Secretary of the Royal College of Nursing said:

“This research is extremely worrying. These cuts will affect essential core services, which some of the most vulnerable people in society rely on.  There is also a great danger that the consequences of these cuts could create  gaps in provision and increased pressure on the NHS.

“Nurses know firsthand that when care needs are not addressed quickly close to home, it is the NHS that picks up these needs.  With evidence that services are being further scaled back in the community, more pressure will be put on health care services, at more expense. Our own research through the ‘Frontline First’ campaign has revealed that some NHS services are being decommissioned and that services reduced in one sector are not always being addressed or re-provided in another sectors.”

Ends

Notes for Editors

1. For further information, interviews or illustrations please contact the RCN Media Office on 0207 647 3633, press.office@rcn.org.uk or visit  http://www.rcn.org.uk/newsevents/media

2. The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is the voice of nursing across the UK and is the largest professional union of nursing staff in the world. The RCN promotes the interest of nurses and patients on a wide range of issues and helps shape healthcare policy by working closely with the UK Government and other national and international institutions, trade unions, professional bodies and voluntary organisations