Coronvirus has presented the NHS with its biggest challenge in a generation, putting the system under an unprecedented level of strain at a time when demand for health and care services was already at an all time high. The NHS is well placed to respond to the pandemic, but NHS Providers welcomes decisive measures outlined in the Coronavirus Bill, especially provisions which seek to support frontline staff.

The bill aims to achieve the following:

• Increase the number of health and social care workers available
• Ease the burden on frontline staff, both within the NHS and beyond
• Delay and slow the virus
• Manage the deceased with respect and dignity