Feeling the cold: implications for nurse managers arising from the financial pressures in health care in England

Aim The purpose of this short paper is to identify some of the implications and opportunities nurse managers in England face as a result of the current global economic recession. Background Government borrowing and poor global economic conditions have combined to create a 175 pound billion budget deficit in the UK. The National Health Service in England will be required to make substantial savings in order to help offset this shortfall. Key issues This is a brief critical commentary which examines some of the challenges and opportunities for nurse managers in England. It draws on a number of sources to identify key issues concerning nursing management arising from the financial pressures facing health care. Conclusion The next few years are going to be very difficult for nurses and their managers, however, the current situation also presents opportunities to advance the contribution and influence of nursing and nursing management. Implications for nursing management What nurse managers do next will be crucial in shaping the NHS response to the financial storm and the future nature of health care in England.