New NHS foundation trust failure measures announced

A package of new measures designed to deal with “exceptional failures” in NHS foundation trusts has been announced by health secretary Andy Burnham.

The steps were announced following the identification of failings at Mid Staffordshire NHS foundation trust, the Department of Health reported, noting that they include the appointment of a new chair and chief executive at Stafford Hospital.

Sir Stephen Moss and Antony Sumara are to be tasked with transforming services at the medical facility “as a matter of urgency”.

In addition, a consultation regarding changes to allow foundation trust regulator Monitor to de-authorise a trust that is failing to meet predetermined standards will take place.

Commenting, Mr Burnham said: “Together these measures will help the hospital improve more quickly and ensure that patients and people in Stafford can have confidence in their local hospital.”

Earlier this month, Mr Burnham announced that Lord Rooker has been appointed as the chair of the Food Standards Agency.