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A world class health service based on core values

We believe that it's our responsibility to bring together a diverse workforce that serves our equally diverse communities and shares cultural values essential to providing the best services possible.

After consulting with staff and the public, we have identified a key set of values, designed to shape the way we work.

  • The NHS will provide a universal and comprehensive service with equal access for all; free at the point of use, based on clinical need, not ability to pay;
  • We will help keep people healthy and work to reduce health inequalities;
  • We will work continuously to improve quality and safety;
  • We will strive for the most effective and sustainable use of resources;
  • We will treat every patient with dignity and respect;
  • We will shape our services around the needs and preferences of individual patients, their families and their carers;
  • We are committed to equality and non-discrimination;
  • We will support and value our staff;
  • We will work in partnership with others to ensure a seamless service for patients; and,
  • We will respect the confidentiality of individual patients and provide open access to information about services, treatment and performance.

Find out more about the NHS Core Principles.

Our values are what makes our vision real. Find out more about them and see how we’re adapting to meet the needs of Britain's changing population.