A damning new YouGov survey has exposed the depth of public frustration with the National Health Service, with a staggering 70% of Britons believing the NHS is performing poorly. The findings come as Shadow Health Secretary Wes Streeting warns of an impending "make-or-break moment" for the UK's cherished healthcare system.
Public Sentiment at All-Time Low
The poll, commissioned by NHS Providers, paints a bleak picture of public perception:
- Only 24% think the NHS is doing well - a dramatic 29-point drop since 2020
- 70% rate current performance as bad, including 31% who describe it as "very bad"
- 64% believe the government should increase NHS funding, even if it means higher taxes
Political Pressure Mounts
Wes Streeting seized on the findings, declaring: "These results should serve as a wake-up call to ministers. After 14 years of Conservative mismanagement, patients are paying the price." The Labour frontbencher promised radical reforms if his party wins power, including greater use of private sector capacity to reduce waiting lists.
NHS Leaders Sound Alarm
Sir Julian Hartley of NHS Providers warned: "These figures reflect the daily reality our members face - overstretched services struggling to meet demand." The organisation highlighted particular concerns about:
- Record waiting lists exceeding 7.6 million
- Chronic staff shortages across all disciplines
- Aging infrastructure and equipment failures
With winter pressures looming, healthcare leaders fear the system may reach breaking point without urgent intervention from Westminster.
