Government Announces £102m Investment in GP Infrastructure

In a substantial move to tackle the long-standing issue of inadequate practice space, the UK Government has committed £102 million to upgrade and expand over 1,000 GP surgeries across England. The investment aims to create capacity for an additional 8.3 million appointments annually, supporting increased demand and reducing pressure on practice staff. Work is expected to begin in the summer, with the scheme forming part of broader reforms to modernise general practice.

Public Sector Pay Uplift Sparks Criticism from Health Professionals

Pay awards of between 3.6% and 6% for public sector workers have been met with resistance from health unions. The British Medical Association (BMA) has called the offer “woefully inadequate,” particularly for junior doctors seeking substantial increases to address a decade of real-terms pay erosion. Nursing staff, too, have voiced dissatisfaction, noting the disparity in treatment compared with other NHS roles. Union leaders are warning of further industrial action if pay negotiations do not better reflect the financial realities of healthcare workers.

Service Development Funding Guidance Released

NHS England has issued new guidance on the allocation of 2025/26 Service Development Funding (SDF), outlining national priorities for Integrated Care Boards (ICBs). These include improving patient access, bolstering urgent dental care, and advancing the modern general practice model. ICBs are expected to submit action plans by June 2025, detailing how they will use allocated funds to reduce inequalities and deliver consistent standards of care across regions.

Progress and Pitfalls in Digital Transformation

Efforts to transition NHS services to digital-first models continue, with renewed focus on establishing integrated patient records and expanding use of the NHS App. However, implementation challenges remain. Fragmented IT systems and inconsistent data-sharing protocols have slowed progress, prompting calls for more robust national infrastructure and clearer accountability. Pilot programmes are currently underway to test scalable solutions for system-wide digital integration.

Norovirus Outbreak Prompts Public Health Alert

A significant outbreak of norovirus at a Hampshire primary school has led to multiple hospitalisations and prompted warnings from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). Officials report that infection rates are more than twice the seasonal average. The public has been urged to follow hygiene guidance strictly, with those affected advised to stay home until symptom-free for at least 48 hours.

Cross-Party Inquiry Launched into Access to Primary Care

A new parliamentary inquiry aims to build consensus on long-term strategies to improve access to primary care services. With demand outstripping capacity, especially in under-served regions, the inquiry will examine workforce planning, service delivery models, and the integration of health and social care. Findings are expected to influence future policy beyond the next general election cycle.

Dementia Awareness Week Highlights Diagnosis Gaps

Running from 19 to 25 May, Dementia Awareness Week has placed a spotlight on the need for earlier and more accurate diagnosis. With over 900,000 people in the UK living with dementia, the Alzheimer’s Society is urging the public to seek timely assessments and for healthcare systems to ensure that diagnostic pathways are adequately resourced and accessible.

New Weight Management Support Planned for Primary Care

NHS England is preparing to commission behavioural support services to complement the use of tirzepatide, a weight-loss medication now being prescribed in primary care. The aim is to support sustainable weight loss through high-quality lifestyle coaching, ensuring long-term effectiveness beyond pharmaceutical intervention alone. The tender process is expected to begin shortly.

As primary care continues to evolve, these updates reflect the sector’s ongoing efforts to balance policy reform, workforce sustainability, digital advancement, and patient-centred care. For practices and stakeholders alike, staying informed on these developments remains essential for strategic planning and operational resilience.

For tailored support in navigating these changes, from workforce planning to policy compliance and CQC readiness, General Practice Solutions remains committed to supporting primary care organisations across the UK. Click here to see how we can support your organisation.

Workforce Wednesdays: HR Hot Topics with Jordan

Staying informed about workforce issues is key to building resilient primary care teams—especially during times of operational change and staffing pressure. Join us every week for Workforce Wednesdays, where our HR lead Jordan explores topical issues in primary care staffing, employment law updates, and practical solutions for managing teams effectively.

From handling absences to navigating contract changes, Jordan shares clear, actionable insights that help practice leaders stay ahead.

Click here to explore Workforce Wednesdays and tune in to the latest HR hot topics.

Stay Updated with Primary Care News

For more up-to-date primary care news, tune in to Tuesday Talks! Each week, we discuss key industry updates, policy changes, and how they impact healthcare providers. We also highlight the latest services and solutions offered by GPS, helping practices stay ahead in an ever-changing NHS landscape.

Join us for expert insights, practical advice, and in-depth discussions tailored to primary care professionals.

See the latest episode below!