Foundation Trust Network meets with government over NHS reforms

Key government figures have met with the Foundation Trust Network to discuss the controversial NHS reform plans.

Prime minister David Cameron and health secretary Andrew Lansley spoke with representatives from the organisation at Downing Street as part of its ongoing listening exercise on NHS modernisation.

Among the issues discussed was the impact the planned reforms will have on accountability, with the move for all NHS trusts to become foundation trusts designed to strengthen links between healthcare bodies and local communities.

Sue Slipman, director of the Foundation Trust Network, said the meeting provided an opportunity to express the organisation's concerns over the challenges the reforms may bring, as well as its support for the changes in principle.

Mr Lansley added: "This listening exercise is a genuine opportunity to pause, reflect and improve our plans for the NHS and I'm impressed at the level of enthusiasm from all those wanting to get involved."

The government has received criticism for its handling of the planned changes to the NHS, with members of the Royal College of Nursing recently passing a motion of no confidence in Mr Lansley by a 99 per cent majority.