Wellcome responds to UK government 10 Year Health Plan for England

Beth Thompson, Executive Director Policy & Partnerships at Wellcome, said:

 

“It’s brilliant to see the government recognise that science and technology will be key to reinventing the NHS, echoing Wellcome's vision as highlighted in our 'From Research to Reality' report. The plans to bolster clinical careers and enhance NHS data use are exciting steps in the right direction.

 

“The commitments on mental health in this plan are also very good news. By expanding access to digital mental health solutions, carefully embracing the promise of AI, and better understanding how people's genetic makeup affects their response to medication, we can expand reach and better target effective treatments to the millions of people experiencing mental health problems in the UK.

 

"However, we are concerned the bold aspirations of the Plan are not matched by the squeezed health research budget as outlined in the recent spending review. The NHS of the future is within reach, and the ambition is there. Decisive action is now needed to make it a reality.”