Long-term funding is vital to solve ‘corridor care’

Thursday 11 June 2026

Commenting on the first publication by NHS England today (Thursday) of data on ‘corridor care’ in hospitals, UNISON head of health Helga Pile said:

“These figures highlight how patients face agonising delays in corridors and waiting rooms.

“The data is a step in the right direction but doesn’t tell the whole story. Many more people are also trapped in ambulances waiting outside emergency departments.

“Car park and corridor care compromise the privacy and dignity of people who are sick and vulnerable. Sheer demand and the crisis in social care mean the NHS is struggling to deliver the quality of care patients need and staff want to give. 

“This situation also undermines the morale of staff who bear the brunt of patients’ frustrations.

“The NHS cannot be expected to continue in this way. Proper investment and a long-term response are needed to address staffing shortages. A national care service is also essential to resolve the social care bottleneck.”

Notes to editors:
– UNISON is the UK’s largest union, with more than 1.3 million members providing public services in education, local government, the NHS, police service and energy. They are employed in the public, voluntary and private sectors.

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