Posted on: 7 March 2024
The Spring Budget (6 March 2024) announcement marks a critical moment for the future of our health and care system, particularly in the face of upcoming elections and the ongoing challenges posed by various crises.
We appreciate the Chancellor’s recognition of the £2.5bn funding required to support the on-going cost of NHS pay awards announced and implemented in 2023/24.
The emphasis on digital transformation and technological advancements in health and care is pivotal for modernising the NHS to the benefit of all partners it works alongside, so that, together, we can join up health and care for the 2.4million people living in West Yorkshire.
The allocation of £3.4bn towards upgrading outdated technology and enhancing digital infrastructure, leveraging technologies like AI to streamline administrative processes and improve diagnostic accuracy, holds the promise of enhancing people’s care and optimising health and care resources.
The NHS requires sustained, multi-year investment to effectively plan and address long-standing issues. The commitment to productivity improvements is encouraging, but it must be accompanied by comprehensive support for health and care professionals and a concerted effort to address workforce challenges and retention.
Regarding the implementation of a new tax on vaping products to take effect from October 2026, this crucial measure, coupled with an increase in tobacco duty by £2.00 per 100 cigarettes, represents a significant step forward in promoting healthier lifestyle choices and combating the harmful effects of tobacco and nicotine addiction.
The decision to link the taxation of vaping products to the levels of nicotine is welcomed, as it aligns with evidence-based strategies aimed at reducing tobacco consumption and mitigating the associated public health risks. The importance of discouraging tobacco use, while incentivising smokers to transition towards less harmful alternatives, such as vaping, is a direction of travel we welcome. As a Partnership we continue to support and work towards a smokefree generation.
Across the breadth and depth of health and care in West Yorkshire, we are working together on our People Plan to address workforce challenges and retention, and on efficiency savings and greater productivity via our five local places (Bradford District and Craven, Calderdale, Kirklees, Leeds and Wakefield District).
While the focus on NHS funding is vital, we must also address the urgent funding needs of local government and social care services. Neglecting these crucial areas jeopardizes the overall health and well-being of people and communities across West Yorkshire. As a Partnership deeply invested in the well-being of our communities, we recognise the interconnectedness of public services.
The Budget announcement underscores the need for a more holistic and sustainable approach to health and care funding, especially in early help and prevention. We must prioritise long-term investments, foster innovation, and ensure equitable access to high-quality health and care services for all, as we live the reality of local government budgets coming under significant pressure.
Our councils urgently require greater funding certainty through multi-year settlements to halt ongoing decline and to support key national government objectives such as economic growth, job creation, and housing development. Sustainable funding is essential to safeguard the delivery of our vital health and care services and to meet the needs of people and our communities effectively now and in the future.
ENDS
