Versus Arthritis Statement

Deborah Alsina MBE, Chief Executive of Versus Arthritis said:

"It’s been clear for some time that, despite its brilliant and dedicated staff, the NHS is struggling to meet the health needs of the nation. No doubt the complexity of current NHS structures in England has been a contributing factor.

"However, history has shown us that major structural changes leads to years of upheaval and uncertainty. This comes alongside huge cuts to workforce and budgets. While Versus Arthritis will always play its part in helping to make any reform a success, we are deeply concerned that these changes could lead to de-stabilisation and push positive steps to improve outcomes for our community further into the future.

"People with arthritis deserve better services now. We urge the government to keep a strategic focus on patient experience so that any new structures are designed with them at the heart of it from the outset."