NHS waiting lists have seen a dramatic decrease both locally and nationally, with more than 7,500 fewer patients waiting in Bristol and Weston-super-Mare. At University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, waiting lists dropped by 7,575 patients, contributing to a nationwide reduction of over 86,000 in November alone—one of the largest declines recorded in 15 years.
Dan Aldridge, MP for Weston-super-Mare, praised NHS staff for their dedication under immense pressure, stating, “The hardworking teams at University Hospitals Bristol and Weston have achieved this remarkable reduction despite handling record demand. Reducing waiting lists by 7,575 since the election shows what is possible when the NHS is properly funded and modernised.”
He acknowledged the ongoing challenges facing the NHS, particularly in emergency and ambulance services, emphasizing that while progress is steady, there is still much to be done. “Labour is committed to improving our NHS to ensure patients in Weston receive quicker diagnoses, faster treatments, and better overall care,” Aldridge added.
Nationally, the NHS waiting list currently stands at 7.31 million, down by 312,000 since Labour took office. These figures include patients awaiting consultations, assessments, diagnoses, and treatments.
Aldridge urged the public to get their flu vaccinations ahead of winter to help ease the pressure on NHS services. Flu jabs are free for carers, pregnant women, people with long-term health conditions, those living with someone who has such conditions, and individuals aged 65 and over. Others can obtain vaccines privately through certain pharmacies.
The University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust covers multiple facilities, including Weston General Hospital, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bristol Eye Hospital, and several others across ten sites. With a staff of 15,000 providing over 100 clinical services, the trust serves more than half a million people and holds a ‘Good’ rating from the Care Quality Commission.