Agenda for Change: NHS Pay Restraint — [Mr Nigel Evans in the Chair]

Part of the debate – in Westminster Hall at 4:30 pm on 30 January 2017.

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Photo of Catherine McKinnell Catherine McKinnell Labour, Newcastle upon Tyne North 4:30, 30 January 2017

I very much agree. That is a factor right across the NHS and the social care sector, and it is an issue we see arising increasingly as staff come under increasing pressure, with the increased pressure to make efficiency savings, which ultimately compromises the health and safety of staff who find themselves in such situations.

Just last week the National Audit Office published its report into NHS ambulance services, which concluded, among other things, that:

“Increased funding for urgent and emergency activity has not matched rising demand, and future settlements are likely to be tougher”.

Crucially, in the context of this debate, it also concluded that:

“Ambulance trusts face resourcing challenges that are limiting their ability to meet rising demand. Most trusts are struggling to recruit the staff they need and then retain them. The reasons people cite for leaving are varied and include pay and reward, and the stressful nature of the job.”

That very much ties in with the concerns the hon. Gentleman raised.