£215m package of funds to help transform people’s lives
THE GOVERNMENT has announced a £215m package of funding for research into transforming the lives of millions of people living with a range of conditions, including life-long illnesses, mental health issues and obesity.
It will see leading academics and technology experts able to apply for research funding with the aim of helping to give patients greater independence and choice about how they manage their healthcare.
The announcement comes as the NHS enters its 70th anniversary week, with celebrations planned up and down the country.
Services will be held at Westminster Abbey and York Minster to pay tribute to the millions of people who have worked for the health service. The ceremonies, taking place on the day itself Thursday July 5 - will be attended by health leaders, staff and health service users.
Other celebrations include events in Manchester, where the first NHS patient was treated, and a series of tea parties across the country to raise money for NHS charities. Health and Social Care Secretary Jeremy Hunt said: “As the NHS celebrates its 70th birthday, more people than ever before are living longer lives thanks to the dedication of hardworking staff.
“It is therefore vital we harness technology to develop the next generation of innovative treatments as part of the Government’s long-term plan for the NHS.
“That’s why I want our worldleading academics, researchers and technology experts to work with front-line staff to develop the innovations which not only allow people to live longer, but also to lead healthier lives, so the NHS can continue to provide worldclass care to all.”
The move will also see an extra £3m invested in the creation of a new research leader programme for nurses and midwives to influence new approaches to health and care and improve patient experience.
Of the overall £215m package of funding, £150m will fund research over the next five years to tackle key emerging issues, including the pressures of an ageing population and the increasing demands on the NHS.
Led by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), healthcare organisations will be able to apply for funding on behalf of a collaboration of organisations.
More people are living longer lives thanks to hard-working staff. Jeremy Hunt.