John Baron MP welcomes increase in NHS workforce

MP figures do not include NHS volunteers

John Baron MP welcomed recent figures which showed that, compared to last year, there were 12,131 more nurses and 6,629 more doctors in the NHS at the end of March 2020. This is also an increase since 2010 of over 22,000 more nurses, midwives and health visitors, and over 23,100 more doctors. All professionally qualified clinical staff, doctors, nurses, scientific, therapeutic and technical staff and support to clinical staff are at record levels.

John said,

“It is excellent news that our NHS workforce is going from strength to strength, and it shows the Government’s commitment to the health service that it is overseeing these significant increases to the NHS’ capacity and skills. As these figures date from March, they do not include the large numbers of former healthcare professionals, such as doctors and nurses, who admirably returned to the colours to help us through the coronavirus pandemic. As a result, the NHS has probably never been stronger.”

Notes to Editors:

• If people are having difficulty obtaining essential supplies, they can register with Essex Coronavirus Action, which is a collaboration between Essex County Council, the Essex Public Health Team and local groups. Their number is 0300 303 9988, open from 8.00am – 8.00pm, seven days a week.

• They can also register with the Community Hub, which is run by Basildon Council and provides support to the elderly and vulnerable at this time. The number is 01268 533 333 (option 1), or e-mail coronavirusresidents@basildon.gov.uk.