Final NHS NED webinar of 2024 – the implications of the budget

GGI’s final NHS NEDs webinar of the year focused on the implications of the budget for NHS non-executive directors.

The well-attended event was chaired by GGI CEO Professor Andrew Corbett-Nolan, who welcomed attendees with an acknowledgement of their dedication in 2024. He noted the evolving role of NEDs in navigating increasingly complex financial and governance landscapes and emphasised the importance of collaboration and strategic foresight in addressing the mounting pressures on NHS organisations.

Our main guest speaker was Tony Warne, Chair of Greater Manchester Mental Health Trust. Drawing from his experiences in transforming underperforming trusts, Tony offered valuable insights into the budget's implications for governance, workforce sustainability, and service delivery. He highlighted the urgent need for innovation in financial planning and governance structures to ensure resilience in the face of rising demands. Tony expands a bit on his contribution in a blog post.

During a lively Q&A session, NEDs raised concerns about the practical challenges of implementing budget-driven changes. Key themes included the importance of transparent decision-making, the role of technology in optimising resource allocation, and strategies for maintaining staff morale during financially constrained times.

The webinar concluded with a call to action for NEDs to leverage their unique positions in bridging governance and operational realities. NEDs were encouraged to continue fostering open dialogue, sharing best practices, and prioritising the NHS’s long-term mission of delivering equitable and effective healthcare.