• Latest figures show over 6,000 more doctors and over 12,000 more nurses working in the NHS compared to last year.
• Part of the Conservatives’ election pledge to ensure there are 50,000 more nurses by 2024-25.

The number of doctors working in NHS England has increased by over 6,000 over the last year, while the number of nurses has increased by over 12,000.

In the South West, the number of doctors working in the NHS has increased by 623 to 10,956 – a rise of 6%.

The number of nurses has increased by 1,455 to 27,111 – a rise of 5.7%. The South East is the only region to see a bigger percentage rise.

It means patients across the region will be able to see better results in frontline services.

Across England there are now over 23,100 more doctors and over 22,000 more nurses, midwives and health visitors working in the NHS than when the Conservatives came into office in May 2010.

These figures do not include any former healthcare professionals who have volunteered to return to the NHS during the coronavirus pandemic.

During the 2019 General Election, the Conservatives pledged that there would be 50,000 more nurses working in the NHS by the end of the Parliament. These latest figures represent significant progress towards delivering on that commitment.

Throughout the coronavirus pandemic, the government has worked to support the NHS and those who work in our health system. It has provided more than £14billion for the NHS and public services, which has helped to increase critical care capacity, ensure staff have the equipment they need and ensure those on the frontline are supported as they deal with this crisis.

Commenting, Peter Booth, chairman of South West Conservatives, said:

“We’ve seen the very best of our NHS in recent months, and I pay tribute to every single NHS worker in the South West who has done so much to care for patients during the coronavirus pandemic.

“There are now record numbers of doctors and nurses working in our healthcare system, showing that the Conservatives are delivering on the promises we made to the British people during last year’s election.

“This Conservative government will continue to support everyone who works for the NHS, while ensuring we get more staff on the frontline to deliver world-class care for patients.”

Matt Hancock, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, said:

“It’s fantastic to see record numbers of NHS staff, including 6,000 more doctors and 12,000 more nurses compared to last year.

“Thanks to the hard work and dedication of our NHS staff, we are turning the tide on coronavirus, and I remain absolutely committed to growing the workforce and making the NHS the best possible place to work.

“We will continue to do everything we can to attract and retain our brilliant NHS staff as part of delivering 50,000 more nurses by end of the Parliament.”