Patients and pupils across England are set to benefit from nearly £1.2 billion worth of ‘essential maintenance fixes’ being rolled out at hospitals and schools, the Department of Health and Social Care, Department for Education, and NHS England, have announced.
Over 400 hospitals, mental health units, and ambulance sites across England will receive £750 million to tackle ‘long-term problems’ such as leaky pipes, poor ventilation and electrical issues, helping to prevent thousands of cancelled operations and appointments, three organisations say. Meanwhile, children at 656 schools and sixth forms will benefit from a share of £470 million for projects such as fixing crumbling roofs and removing dangerous asbestos.
The Government says the funding is part of its ‘mission to fix the dire state of public service infrastructure’ it inherited, and deliver investment and reform through its Plan for Change.
Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, said: “A decade and a half of underinvestment left hospitals crumbling, with burst pipes flooding Emergency Departments, faulty electrical systems shutting down operating theatres, and mothers giving birth in outdated facilities that lack basic dignity. We are on a mission to rebuild our NHS through investment and modernisation. Patients and staff deserve to be in buildings that are safe, comfortable, and fit-for-purpose. Through our Plan for Change, we will make our NHS fit for the future.”
A wide range of healthcare facilities and services will benefit – including over £100 million for maternity units. The DHSC says this will fund ‘critical improvements’ such as replacing outdated ventilation systems in neonatal intensive care units, ‘creating optimal environmental conditions for vulnerable babies, and their families during challenging times’.
Simon Corben, director and head of Profession for NHS Estates and Facilities at NHS England (pictured), said: “I welcome this funding as a long-overdue step toward tackling the unacceptable state of parts of the NHS estate. Too many buildings have been allowed to fall into disrepair, putting patient safety and staff working conditions at risk.
“It is now vital that NHS England and local leaders deliver – every pound must be spent wisely, with clear accountability, and a laser focus on improving frontline care.”
