The NHS Constitution brings together, in one place for the first time in the history of the NHS, what staff, patients and public can expect. The Constitution reaffirms that the NHS belongs to us all and everyone has a role to play in its success. As well as capturing the purpose, principles and values of the NHS, the Constitution includes a number of rights, pledges and responsibilities for staff and patients alike. These rights and responsibilities are the result of extensive discussions and consultations with staff, patients and public and reflect what matters to them.
The aim is that the Constitution will form the basis of a new relationship between staff and patients – a relationship based on partnership, respect and shared commitment where everyone knows what they can expect from the NHS and what is expected from them.