The NHS Constitution for England
Department of Health and Social Care
First published 2009; periodically updated.
Summary
The NHS Constitution sets out the principles and values of the health service in England, together with the rights and responsibilities of patients, the public and staff. Its seven guiding principles include providing a comprehensive service available to all; access based on clinical need rather than ability to pay; aspiring to the highest standards of excellence; putting patients at the heart of everything; working across organisational boundaries; providing best value for taxpayers' money; and being accountable to the public. It lists six values that describe how staff should behave: working together for patients; respect and dignity; commitment to quality of care; compassion; improving lives; and everyone counts. It also sets out patient rights — for example to be treated with dignity, to be involved in decisions and to complain — and pledges the NHS aims to meet, such as timely treatment.
Why it matters at interview
Many schools' interviews are built around NHS values, and 'What are the NHS values?' is a common opening. Knowing them lets you connect your experiences to the organisation you would work in.
Key takeaways
- Seven principles, including care free at the point of use based on clinical need.
- Six values: working together for patients; respect and dignity; commitment to quality of care; compassion; improving lives; everyone counts.
- Sets out rights and responsibilities for patients and staff.
- 'Everyone counts' links directly to health inequalities.
How to use it
Link your examples to a named value: 'That volunteering taught me what "respect and dignity" looks like when someone can no longer do things for themselves.'