NHS Confederation Responds to IPPR report, ‘Health and prosperity’ and Launch of New Commission

Responding to the IPPR report, ‘Health and prosperity’ and the launch of a new Commission on Health and Prosperity,
Matthew Taylor, NHS Confederation chief executive and commission member said:

“The pandemic has shown how deep health inequalities shape and cut across the lives and livelihoods of people across the country.

“Yet this is not new, disparities in health have not suddenly appeared, they have been part of the make-up of our society for decades. As millions of people now face the reality of a cost-of-living crisis there is an urgent need for a much bolder and more strident approach to tackling inequalities to create improved population health and stronger economic wellbeing.

“NHS leaders know all too well the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on people living in more deprived areas, and from ethnic minority backgrounds but systemic inequality was an issue long before the pandemic and it is vital that it is addressed once and for all.

“We are delighted to be part of the Commission on Health and Prosperity and look forward to reflecting member insight.”