The government has today unveiled its new 10-year plan for the NHS, promising major improvements to GP access, hospital care, and community health services.

At Healthwatch Central Bedfordshire, we welcome the ambition behind the plan but stress the need for local voices to be heard as the changes are rolled out.

What’s in the 10-Year NHS Plan?

The government’s new strategy, titled “Health for the Future”, includes several headline promises:

  • Faster GP Appointments – Everyone to be offered an urgent appointment within 48 hours

  • 50 New Community Diagnostic Centres – Aimed at reducing hospital waiting lists

  • More Digital Options – Including better NHS App features and AI-based triage tools

  • More Doctors and Nurses – 15,000 new doctors and 50,000 new nurses by 2035

  • Focus on Prevention and Reducing Inequality – Closer links between NHS and social care

Healthwatch Central Bedfordshire’s Response

We speak to local people every day about their experiences of health and care services. While the plan outlines important steps, it’s vital that the government and NHS leaders listen to people in our community to ensure these promises become a reality.

“This plan sets out some positive goals, but real change will only happen if local people are involved from the very start,” says Diana Blackmun, Chief Executive of Healthwatch Central Bedfordshire.

“Residents regularly tell us about long waits to see a GP or dentist, difficulty accessing mental health support, and poor coordination between health and social care. These are the issues we need to fix.”

What You’ve Told Us Locally

Over the past year, we’ve heard from hundreds of people in Central Bedfordshire. Key issues include:

  • Long waits to access GP, hospital, and mental health appointments

  • Challenges for older people and carers navigating complex systems

  • The need for better communication, especially for people with additional needs

  • A desire for more joined-up services across health and social care

What Happens Next?

We will continue working with local NHS services, Central Bedfordshire Council, and our community partners to ensure this plan works for local people. Healthwatch Central Bedfordshire will be:

  • Monitoring the roll-out of key services in our area

  • Sharing updates on how the plan is impacting people locally

  • Making sure your voice is heard in decisions that affect your care

Tell Us What You Think

Your feedback matters more than ever. What do you think about the government’s NHS plan? What changes would make the biggest difference to your health and care?

Email: info@healthwatch-centralbedfordshire.org.uk

Or contact us directly at 0300 303 8554

Together, we can shape a better NHS for Central Bedfordshire.

Read the Government’s ‘Fit for the Future: 10 Year Health Plan for England’