Recommendation 16

There are differences in the capability of individual trusts, including around management, clinical leadership, and technology, that must be addressed to reduce variations in patients’ access to and experience of services.38 We asked witnesses how the worst performing trusts were being brought up to the standards of the best.39 The Department said tackling variability and importing best practice was one of its biggest priorities and NHS England told us it worked more closely with those systems that it has identified as the most challenged, of which there are currently seven, to provide extra help and support including financial assistance.40