Mileage Expenses Reimbursement NHS Community Care Staff 2022-07-19

2022-07-19

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Questions & Answers

Q1 Partial Answer

▸ Context

The question addresses concerns over the adequacy of mileage expense reimbursement for NHS community care staff, noting significant increases in fuel costs affecting these workers.

What assessment he has made of the adequacy of the rate of reimbursement for mileage expenses for NHS community care staff. The current reimbursement rate is 56p per mile which drops to 20p after 3,500 miles, and this rate hasn't been adjusted since 2014.

Steve Barclay

Reimbursement of travel costs is covered by NHS terms and conditions agreed jointly with trade unions. The process includes reviewing fuel prices. The 56p rate is higher than HMRC's approved rate but drops to 20p after 3,500 miles. Government measures such as reducing fuel duty are part of the fiscal response.

▸ Assessment & feedback

Specific assessment of adequacy and future adjustments based on current fuel prices

Government Measures Such As Reducing Fuel Duty Are Part Of The Fiscal Response

Response accuracy

Feedback type

Comment (optional)

Q2 Partial Answer

Rosie Cooper

▸ Context

The question discusses how rising fuel costs affect NHS staff who travel to treat patients in the community, suggesting this could lead to a loss of skilled workers and impact patient care.

Fuel costs have increased by up to 60p per litre since last year. The current reimbursement rate is 56p per mile dropping to 20p after 3,500 miles, not adjusted since 2014. Does the Secretary agree that if this rate does not rise with fuel prices, staff could move to acute sector jobs where they won't face extra costs? This would be a catastrophe for both staff and patients at home.