What is the NHS Constitution?
It is a sort of ‘Bill of Rights' which sets out the principles and values that guide how the NHS should act and make decisions. It also explains the rights and responsibilities of staff, patients and the public, and the NHS' pledges to them.
Who does it apply to?
It applies to all of us. In terms of services it applies to all NHS organisations and other bodies supplying NHS services.
What does it do?
It:
- brings together in one place what staff, patients and taxpayers can expect from the NHS
- forms the basis of a new relationship between staff and patients - based on partnership
- describes everyone's responsibilities and makes it clear how we can make best use of NHS resources
- confirms that the NHS belongs to all of us
- details all existing rights for staff, patients and the public and explains what to do if you feel your rights have not been upheld. It also explains where the NHS pledges to improve services and working environments
- sets out for the first time new rights for patients, eg:
- right to make choices about your care
- right to receive vaccinations that the national body recommends
- sets out principles and values to guide how all parts of the NHS should act and make decisions
Why is it necessary?
It:
- secures the future of the NHS for generations to come. The government must renew the constitution every 10 years after comprehensive consultation
- aims to ensure high-quality, free NHS services - value for money for tax payers
- tells staff and patients to what they are entitled
- recognises that it is staff that really make the difference when providing high-quality care
- helps staff, patients and the public play their part in the NHS
- sets out a vision in which all staff should be trusted and actively listened to and have the confidence and tools to act in patients' interests
What are the rights and NHS pledges to patients?
The rights and pledges are detailed under the following headings:
- access to health services
- quality of care and the environment
- nationally approved treatments and programmes
- respect, consent and confidentiality
- informed choice
- involvement in healthcare and the NHS
- complaint and redress
How can I learn more about the constitution?
You will find further information on the Department of Health website.
Order on line: www.orderline.dh.gov.uk
Email: dh@prolog.uk.com
Phone: 0300 123 1002
Post:
PO Box 7
London
SE1 6XH
For further information about the constitution you can ring, or email or write to the company secretary at:
Email nhsconstitution@lcr.nhs.uk
Phone: 0116 295 7518
Post:
Company secretary
Fosse House
6 Smith Way
Grove Park
Enderby
Leicester
LE19 1SSX
To discuss your rights and pledges contact the head of public engagement at
Email: engagement@lcr.nhs.uk
Phone: 0116 2957500
Post:
Head of Engagement
Fosse House
6 Smith Way
Grove Park
Enderby
Leicester
LE19 1SX
Read our news release on the NHS Constitution