For the NHS to have a successful and sustainable future, the government must be open and honest with the public about the need for service change and address the funding issues in social care.

That is the view of NHS leaders in response to a major survey commissioned by the NHS Confederation, which represents almost 500 member organisations (85% of NHS providers and commissioners of services).

The survey showed that more than 90% of NHS leaders believe social care cuts are directly affecting patient care in their organisations.

At the NHS Confederation’s annual conference today (3rd June), chief executive Rob Webster will tell almost 3,000 delegates that in this period following the election the headline messages resulting from the Populus survey must be addressed – and the delivery of the Five Year Forward View fully supported.  

The survey underlines that this will only be possible with political support, improvements in the way national bodies work together and crucially, better support for social care and mental health services.

Mr Webster will also say that while finances will always be a preoccupation for professionals and politicians alike, they must collectively focus attention on improving health and social care for the patients and public they serve.

The NHS Confederation acknowledged that the survey results may make for some difficult reading about the prevailing tough climate, but drew attention to the fact that the leadership of the NHS is prepared to drive positive change, provided it is done collaboratively and with the right support.