The NHS is relying more on charities - and that might be creating problems for patients
Summary
UK health charities are taking a larger role in patient care, including services that the NHS may not be able to provide. Supporters say charitable funding helps patients, while critics warn that charities can end up filling gaps in stretched public services and that wealthier communities may benefit more.Key Facts
- Dementia UK funds virtual clinics that support more than 100 patients and family members each week.
- The clinic began during the Covid pandemic and continued because demand remained strong.
- Charities work in areas including dementia, children's care, mental health and cancer services.
- Some charities have formal NHS contracts, while others work alongside NHS services.
- The article says the NHS in England spends nearly £2 billion a year buying services from not-for-profit and voluntary organisations.
- Cancer charities are estimated to raise more than £1 billion a year.
- The article says more than 220 NHS charities are attached to hospitals or community services and raises the history of public concern about healthcare depending on charity.
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