Inflation Public Health and Wellbeing 2023-09-05
2023-09-05
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
High inflation levels are causing financial hardships for individuals, affecting their physical and mental health.
What recent discussions has the government had with the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care regarding the impact of inflation on public health and wellbeing? Inflation makes it difficult to afford essentials like food, heating, and rent, leading to delayed diagnosis, malnutrition, and severe mental health issues. The prevention approach is being undermined by austerity measures.
The government discusses health budgets frequently. The public health grant will increase to £3.575 billion for the next financial year, providing real-term funding protection over two years. Additional staff are being provided through the long-term workforce plan for the NHS. Post-COVID challenges are recognised and efforts continue to reduce waiting lists.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide a specific figure or commitment regarding inflation impact on health budgets in the next financial year.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The redevelopment of Kettering General Hospital is a key aspect for improving public health and wellbeing in the area.
Can the Treasury confirm that the £400 million plus redevelopment of Kettering General Hospital remains on track to be completed by 2030? Will standardising hospital designs help reduce costs and increase delivery efficiency?
Kettering General Hospital is a priority, but ensuring expenditure efficiency in health estate investment is critical. The standardisation of hospital designs for 40 new hospitals will help achieve this goal.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not confirm the timeline and cost-saving measures specifically for Kettering General Hospital's redevelopment.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Discussions on inflation have an impact on health budgets and services.
What figure did the Minister discuss with the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care regarding inflation estimates for the next financial year?
Various forecasts exist, but specific figures are not available to provide today. We prioritise reprioritising effectively and delivering frontline services.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide a specific inflation figure for the next financial year.
There Are A Range Of Forecasts
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
Stoke-on-Trent North faces significant mental health barriers impacting economic growth.
What support will the Treasury give to help enact plans for specialist mental health nurses to be placed in GP surgeries using existing health and social care funding?
The Chancellor has brought forward interventions to help people return to work. We look forward to working with Jonathan Gullis on solutions for his community, recognising the constructive suggestions he often provides.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address specific support from Treasury for placing mental health specialists in GP surgeries.
We Look Forward To Continuing To Work With My Hon. Friend On Solutions
Response accuracy
Q5
Direct Answer
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Context
The NHS faces significant financial challenges and staff shortages.
How much additional funding will be provided to the NHS over this Parliament? When will 15,000 more medical students training places be committed?
The Government have confirmed £22.6 billion additional NHS funding over this Parliament, increasing annually at 3.8%. This includes capital investment. Training places for 15,000 more medical students are part of the NHS Long Term Workforce Plan by 2028.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy