The NHS Constitution

The NHS Constitution was published on 21 January 2009 and unites the principles, values, rights and responsibilities that underpin the NHS.

It is designed to renew and secure our commitment to the enduring principles of the NHS, making sure that the NHS continues to be relevant to the needs of patients, the public and staff in the 21st century.

The NHS Constitution contains:

• A short introduction, which outlines the purpose of the NHS and of the NHS Constitution.

• The principles of the NHS, which are the enduring high-level ‘rules’ that govern the way that the NHS operates and defi ne how it seeks to achieve its purpose.

• NHS values that inspire passion in the NHS and should guide it in the 21st century. Individual organisations will develop and refresh their own values, tailored to their local needs.

• 25 rights and 14 pledges for patients and the public, as well as their responsibilities.