The latest data from the NHS in England reveals a significant drop in the waiting list for operations and appointments, marking the largest decrease in 15 years outside of the pandemic. In November, the backlog decreased by 86,000, bringing the total waiting list down to 7.31 million.
This improvement reflects a remarkable turnaround for the NHS under the Labour government after more than a decade of increasing waiting lists during previous Tory administrations. While progress has been made, unions and advocacy groups are urging the Government to accelerate efforts in reducing NHS wait times by investing more in the healthcare system.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting emphasized the positive impact of the government’s investments, stating that waiting lists have decreased by over 312,000 and more patients are now receiving treatment within 18 weeks. The significant drop in waiting lists in November, the second-largest in 15 years, is attributed to increased funding and modernization efforts, as well as the dedication of NHS staff.
The NHS waiting list in England had been steadily growing for years, reaching milestones of three million treatments in 2014, four million in 2017, five million in 2021, and seven million in 2022 before the recent decline. The recent progress has instilled trust in politics and demonstrated that government actions can bring about tangible change.
Despite the positive developments, challenges persist in A&E departments, with a record number of over 12-hour trolley waits reported in 2025. The Royal College of Nursing has warned about the ongoing crisis of “corridor care” in emergency wards, highlighting the strain on healthcare services.
Experts point to the consequences of long wait times in A&E, underscoring the urgent need to enhance bed capacity, stabilize staffing, and improve flow through hospitals. The current situation reflects years of underinvestment compounded by the impact of the pandemic, leading to a healthcare system stretched to its limits.
While A&E performance may appear typical compared to previous years, the dramatic increase in long wait times underscores the challenges faced by the healthcare system. The government has set targets to address these issues, aiming to ensure timely care for patients in need.
As winter pressures persist, Health Secretary Wes Streeting reaffirmed the commitment to supporting NHS staff to deliver essential care promptly and effectively.