Welcome to LetsFIXTheNHS.help

Today marks the launch of Let'sFIXTheNHS, a platform dedicated to driving grassroots collaboration, amplifying the voices of patients, families, and healthcare professionals, and creating a united front to steer the future of our National Health Service. This project is for everyone who believes in the fundamental value of our NHS and wants to ensure it thrives for generations to come.

Why Now?

As many know, the NHS is at a crossroads. Persistent challenges—from workforce shortages and long waiting times to outdated infrastructure and regional inequalities—have brought the system under immense pressure. Yet, amidst these challenges lies a growing appetite for change.

Wes Streeting’s Change.NHS.UK initiative has begun an important conversation about reforming our healthcare system, but it’s up to all of us to ensure that conversation remains honest, transparent, and truly representative.

A few days ago I participated in a zoom briefing session for something called 'Workshop in a Box'. It's a clever idea to enable a broad variety of individuals and organisations to host flexible workshops. The purpose is to gather feedback and thus inform the development of the new 10 year NHS plan that is scheduled to be announced in Spring 2025. Though I've yet to look through the material in detail, the workshop discussions will be centred around the three 'shifts' that have been well publicised as foundations of the development plan. These three shifts are: shifting people from hospital to community; making better use of technology; and shifting from treatment to prevention.

Personally I term these issues slightly differently (4 ways to fix the NHS) though the principles are quite similar. The critical issues that seem to have been missed are talent, communication and leadership. Though, perhaps they are included or will be included elsewhere. Also, its impossible to include everything and a good three point plan is what many a strategy consultant looks to create. Time will tell - but I do plan on hosting at least one and perhaps multiple workshops before the February deadline.

The Power of Crowd Collaboration

Crowd collaboration is at the heart of what we are seeking to do with LetsFIXTheNHS. By pooling ideas, experiences, and solutions from people across the UK, we can:

Highlight gaps in care: For instance, why do only 25% of thrombectomy candidates have access to lifesaving treatment within the golden hour? This is not just a statistic; it’s a call to action.

Promote accountability: By maintaining an independent platform, we ensure that discussions about the NHS are free from political spin or corporate influence.

Champion innovation: Whether it’s a community-led initiative or a breakthrough in digital health, Let’sFIXTheNHS will be a hub for sharing and scaling solutions.

A Platform for Independence

Independence is essential for keeping the conversation honest. Let’sFIXTheNHS operates without political affiliations and any sponsorship will be strategic and well vetted to be relevant and ethically aligned. The focus is on the needs and experiences of the people who rely on the NHS daily. This independent and ethical stand will ensure the vision is shaped by the public and not by vested interests.

How You Can Help

Share your story: Have you experienced delays, inequities, or triumphs within the NHS? Your voice matters.

Join the conversation: Participate in forums, polls, and events to shape actionable recommendations.

Spread the word: The more people involved, the stronger our call for change will be.

Together, we can ensure that reform efforts, like Change.NHS.UK, are guided by the principles that make the NHS unique: universality, equity, and compassion.

A Vision for the Future

LetsFIXTheNHS.help aims to be more than a website; the goal is to create a movement. By fostering transparency, collaboration, and innovation, we aim to build a healthcare system that works for everyone - regardless of where they live, their income, or their circumstances.

So, join us. Together, let’s fix the NHS and secure its future as a cornerstone of our society.

Learn how on the LetsFIXTheNHS.help website.