NHS Constitution

What is the NHS Constitution?

The NHS Constitution brought together in one place what the NHS does, what it stands for and the commitments it should live up to. It describes and renews our commitment to the values and enduring principles of the NHS. It is also a living document that needs to reflect what matters and is relevant to the needs of patients, the public and staff in the 21st century.

The constitution brings together in one place details of what staff, patients and the public can expect from the National Health Service. It also explains what you can do to help support the NHS, help it work effectively, and help ensure that its resources are used responsibly.

It sets out your rights as an NHS patient. These rights cover how patients access health services, the quality of care you’ll receive, the treatments and programmes available to you, confidentiality, information and your right to complain if things go
wrong. 

Health Education East of England have put together a useful video about the NHS Constitution, which can be viewed by clicking here or on the image above.

The Handbook to the NHS Constitution can be found here.