Government launches review of health and social care leadership

The government has announced it is launching the most far-reaching review of health and social care leadership in 40 years.

The review of services in England, which was launched on Saturday, will be led by former Vice Chief of the Defence Staff General Sir Gordon Messenger, and will report back to Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Sajid Javid, in early 2022.

Mr Javid, said: “I am determined to make sure the NHS and social care delivers for the people of this country for years to come and leadership is so important to that mission.

“We are committed to providing the resources health and social care needs but that must come with change for the better.

“This review will shine a light on the outstanding leaders in health and social care to drive efficiency and innovation. It will help make sure individuals and families get the care and treatment they need, wherever they are in the country, as we build back better.”

The review will consider how to foster and replicate the best examples of leadership and aims to reduce regional disparities in efficiency and health outcomes across the country.

Publication of the review, which follows the government’s commitment to invest £36bn in health and social care, will be followed by a plan committing to implementing any agreed recommendations along with clear timelines.