Job cuts and restructuring in NHS Sussex reform, report says

NHS Sussex has said it is facing jobs cuts and significant restructuring in a bid to reduce its running costs by 53%.

In a report to the East Sussex Health and Wellbeing Board, it said the Sussex Integrated Care Board (ICB) had been told to bring its running costs down to £18.76 per head of population, from £39.83, in line with national plans.

It said it also planned to merge the Sussex and Surrey Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) into one from April 2026.

East Sussex County Council (ESCC) is set to discuss the issues at a meeting later.

The reform is part of the government’s 10 Year Health Plan for England.

It is also in line with national plans to cut running costs of ICBs and to reduce the number of them.

Stephen Lightfoot, chair of NHS Sussex, said in the report: “The final numbers have not yet been determined, but we are expecting a significant number of posts will be disestablished.”

He said the transition to a new Sussex and Surrey ICB would be “complex to implement” but would “take the best from both of our systems” with the aim of improving health outcomes, reducing health inequalities and securing “the best value for money”.

The report said NHS Sussex is focused on re-engaging staff and empowering patients; shifting care closer to home and simplifying and innovating care delivery.

It said it was also focused on improving hospital productivity; embracing technology; contributing to national prosperity and reforming NHS structure for better delivery.

The plans have faced some criticism.

All four upper tier local authorities in Sussex and Surrey have stated their opposition to the proposed Sussex and Surrey ICB.

They believe it is contrary to mayoral guidelines, will not enable meaningful and effective neighbourhood healthcare to be delivered, and could lead to even greater local NHS cuts.

Roy Lilley, health analyst and former NHS chief executive, said: “You can’t save that kind of money without stopping doing things; employing people, helping people or who they work for.

“This is a difficult time and there are no popular decisions to make.”

The report said the national financial priorities were “challenging” for Sussex as it did not have a plan on how to break even for 2025/26.

The total funds required to operate a “safe and resilient” ICB were £12m over target, it added.

Mr Lightfoot said merging with the Surrey ICB would mean a larger financial operating target to deliver its functions, some place-based resources to work with and commission services with the new unitary authorities.

NHS Sussex has been contacted for comment.