Responding to the news that the NHS faced the “busiest summer in its history” according to official data, BMA council chair Dr Tom Dolphin said: 
 
“The Health Secretary has rightly praised the dedicated staff who pulled the NHS through its busiest summer ever recorded, and no doubt their commitment will be commended again come winter’s inevitable surge. But frankly, warm words and faith alone will not keep the NHS from spiralling toward failure.
 
“What we experienced this summer was indeed record-breaking, but we need to wake up and realise that, soon, it won’t be exceptional. It will be the norm. Doctors cannot keep performing at this level when sucked into a relentless, year-long cycle from sweltering summers straight into bitter winters. Adrenaline and passion for your vocation will get you so far, but without a massive step-up in doctor recruitment, retention, and training, we won’t be able to keep up indefinitely as our climate keeps changing. We will burn out our doctors.
 
“Beyond investment in staff, we also need urgent funding for the buildings they work in. Yesterday’s announcement of a £1.5 billion injection into NHS facilities is welcome, but, realistically, is only a drop in the ocean against a £15.9 billion maintenance backlog. Victorian-era infrastructure that is somehow both draughty and stiflingly hot is simply not fit for a 21st-century health service, let alone a changing climate."

Notes to editors

The BMA is a professional association and trade union representing and negotiating on behalf of all doctors in the UK. A leading voice advocating for outstanding health care and a healthy population. An association providing members with excellent individual services and support throughout their lives.