NHSE launches ‘sprint’ in bid to hit waiting list target

NHS England has told trusts to begin a “sprint” exercise in a bid to hit its politically critical waiting list target by March.

HSJ understands “tens of millions of pounds” is likely to be made available to trusts to fund extra elective work.

The pot was still being finalised as of last week, with the money due to be released from contingency funds within NHSE’s existing budget.

Some trust leaders were given assurances about indicative allocations last week and told to use it as soon as possible. A formal briefing from NHSE leaders is scheduled for next week.

Progress on increasing the proportion of patients waiting under 18 weeks from referral to first treatment stalled in the most recent reporting period. It remained at 61.8% in November – the same level as in October and September.

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Source: HSJ, 21 January 2026