NHS faces a challenging winter beyond normal after busiest summer, health secretary warns
Summer demand sets a record
Almost 7.3 million people attended A&E in England between June and August, according to NHS data. That was the highest number recorded for a summer period. Cooper said the NHS would face a more challenging winter after a heavy summer. Multiple heatwaves preceded the record activity.
Funding for 14 schemes
Money will go towards 14 schemes across England. They include new urgent care centres, ambulance fleets and upgrades to emergency departments.
Waiting lists and concern
The latest data showed the waiting list for routine hospital treatment in England had risen for a second month in a row. The figures were the highest since October 2025 and have prompted questions about whether the NHS can meet the government’s target of treating 92% of patients within 18 weeks by 2029.
RCN England executive director Patricia Marquis welcomed the extra money in the short term, but said it would provide “just another sticking plaster” on a system at breaking point. A related headline in the report described waiting numbers as rising for a fourth consecutive month, conflicting with the stated two-month rise.
Key points
- Almost 7.3 million people attended A&E in England from June to August, a summer record.
- Funding will support 14 schemes, including ambulance fleets and emergency department upgrades.
- The routine treatment waiting list rose, raising questions about the 2029 target to treat 92% within 18 weeks.