RCN response to Comprehensive Spending Review
Published: 20 October 2010
The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) today (20 October) responded to the announcement of the Government’s Spending Review. Dr Peter Carter, RCN Chief Executive & General Secretary, said:
“We welcome the Government’s commitment to a real-terms increase in NHS funding. However, the reality is that this small increase at a time of soaring demand and the rising costs of health care, will still feel like a cut.
“The NHS in England has already been asked to make £20 billion of efficiency savings and today’s Spending Review is likely to lead to further strain on health care services as job losses mount up and benefits are squeezed. Previous times of financial difficulties have shown that it is often the most vulnerable in society who suffer the brunt of these severe cuts.
“We are realistic about the significant financial challenges the nation faces, however we urge policy makers to keep in touch with what is happening on the ground across the public sector.”
On NHS pensions:
“We will work with Lord Hutton and vigorously defend fair pensions for our members ahead of the final report.”
In its commentary on the Spending Review, the Department of Health said that one to one nursing for cancer patients would not be taken forward at this stage.
Dr Peter Carter added:
“It is extremely disappointing that cancer patients will be denied one to one nursing care. From the moment of diagnosis, cancer can be a subject of fear and distress, but more and more people are now living with cancer and beating the disease. Specialist nurses can help all cancer patients to deal with their emotions, avoid unnecessary complications and have a high quality of life. Their value for patients is both unparalleled and cost effective.”
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Notes to Editors
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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.