Health Foundation comment on Keir Starmer's NHS mission

Commenting on Labour's health mission launch, and the technical document accompanying the speech, Jennifer Dixon, Chief Executive of the Health Foundation, said:

‘Labour's vision to focus on the “building blocks” of good health is welcome and the right ambition for any new government. Tackling the biggest killers is not just about fixing problems in the NHS, but also depends on action beyond the health care system – better homes, better jobs, and stronger communities – to prevent disease and enable people to live a healthy life.  

‘More detail is needed to show how Labour will make its vision for stronger care and support in the community a reality. The social care system in England is on its knees and many people go without the care they need, but Labour’s plans for much needed reform and investment are thin. 

‘On the NHS, the commitment to meet NHS waiting times targets "within the first term" will be extremely challenging. Rapid improvements in waiting times under Labour in the 2000s were backed by substantial increases in NHS funding and staff – and, even then, took several years. Exploiting the benefits of AI and wider technology will be crucial to help improve quality and productivity in the NHS and help staff work in new ways. The public will also need to be supported to manage their health effectively using new technologies. 

‘But ultimately, no amount of reform or new tech in the NHS will overcome the need for extra investment after a decade of low spending growth and major pandemic disruption.’