The right wants to destroy our fragile faith in the NHS – don’t let that happen | Polly Toynbee

3 hours ago7 min read

The National Health Service stands as one of Britain's most profound institutional symbols, a testament to post-war collectivism now facing its most severe crisis of public confidence. Recent British Social Attitudes survey data revealing a historic low of just 21% public satisfaction should alarm every serious political observer, representing not merely operational failure but a fundamental breach of the social contract that has defined modern Britain.This erosion mirrors historical patterns where foundational institutions face deliberate undermining during periods of political realignment, reminiscent of the systematic dismantling of public utilities during the Thatcher era. The NHS's chief executive Jim Mackey articulated this existential threat with remarkable candor at the King's Fund conference, acknowledging the service has 'damaged its relationship with the population'—a startling admission from a sitting bureaucrat that underscores the gravity of the situation.The parallel NHS staff survey showing only 64% would recommend their own service to family members reveals an internal corrosion matching external disillusionment. Access issues dominate public concerns—GP availability, hospital appointment delays, and emergency department bottlenecks creating a perfect storm of operational failure.The generational divergence proves particularly telling, with younger demographics expressing greater dissatisfaction than their elders, suggesting the NHS's historical reservoir of goodwill may be draining permanently. Public ambivalence presents a fascinating political paradox: nearly three-quarters acknowledge funding inadequacy while refusing tax increases to remedy it, with 51% questioning the service's spending efficiency.This cognitive dissonance reflects a Churchillian observation about democracy being the worst form of government except for all others—the British public simultaneously criticizes and clings to their healthcare system. The political dimension cannot be overstated, with certain ideological factions recognizing this vulnerability as opportunity, employing rhetorical strategies that mirror the neoliberal playbook applied to other public assets before privatization.Historical precedent suggests that once public confidence drops below certain thresholds, institutional transformation becomes inevitable—whether through reform or replacement. The NHS's quality ratings provide a slender reed of hope, with 51% still approving care standards when accessed, indicating the model's core principles remain sound despite systemic strain.This crisis represents more than healthcare policy—it's a battle for Britain's soul, with the NHS serving as proxy for broader debates about collective responsibility versus individual provision. As with Churchill's warning about appeasement, the erosion of this institution happens gradually then suddenly, through death by a thousand cuts rather than single legislative blow. The coming years will determine whether this remarkable British experiment in universal healthcare can adapt to contemporary demands or whether it will join other fallen icons of the welfare state.

#editorial picks news

#NHS

#public satisfaction

#healthcare funding

#UK politics

#right-wing criticism

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