NHS England to Cut Workforce by Half in Largest Restructuring in Over a Decade

Health Secretary Wes Streeting plans to eliminate up to 7,000 jobs to streamline operations and redirect resources to frontline care.

The restructuring will reduce NHS England's workforce from 13,000 to approximately 6,500, with a focus on eliminating duplication with the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC).
Outgoing NHS England Chief Executive Amanda Pritchard and several senior leaders are stepping down as part of the transition, with Sir Jim Mackey taking over as interim chief executive in April.
The changes aim to save £175 million annually and address a potential £6.6 billion financial overspend in the 2025/26 fiscal year.
Unions and staff have expressed concerns about the rapid pace of the changes, warning of potential disruptions to patient care and staff well-being.
This marks the largest overhaul of NHS England since its establishment in 2013, with plans to integrate its operations more closely with the DHSC under increased ministerial control.