The NHS Constitution brings together the principles, values, rights, and responsibilities that underpin the NHS. It sets out the enduring character of the NHS and aims to empower patients, staff and the public to know and exercise their rights both to help drive improvements in its quality, efficiency, and responsiveness, and to support sustainable delivery of services. 

We welcome the opportunity to respond to the Department of Health and Social Care’s (DHSC) formal consultation to update the NHS Constitution. This formal response is based on information and perspectives shared by members over the last few years.