SEVEN in 10 NHS workers say that the health service is poorly prepared for another pandemic, according to latest YouGov figures.1
In the wake of last month’s outbreak of meningitis in Kent, UK, concerns about NHS pandemic preparedness have resurfaced among frontline healthcare professionals, highlighting ongoing questions about the resilience of the British healthcare system.1
The survey of more than 1,000 NHS staff found that 69% view preparedness as poor, including 26% who rated it as very poor.1
Only 22% believe the NHS is well prepared, with 0% agreeing that the NHS was very well prepared for another pandemic.
Preparedness Concerns Span NHS Workforce
Findings from a healthcare professional survey by YouGov reinforce these concerns across multiple disciplines. More than two-thirds of allied health professionals, nurses and midwives surveyed report that the NHS is not ready for a future pandemic.2 The proportion rises further among ambulance and public health staff, where more than 75% express doubts.2
While 41% of NHS workers believe readiness has improved compared with pre-pandemic levels, 37% report no meaningful change and 16% think the system is now less prepared than before 2020.1 This variation suggests that perceived progress has not been consistent across the workforce.
COVID Inquiry Highlights Systemic Gaps
The third report of the UK COVID inquiry provides important context for current perceptions of NHS pandemic preparedness. It concludes that the health service entered the pandemic with insufficient beds and staffing, placing it in a precarious position.3
During the first wave, services struggled to meet demand. Oxygen supplies approached critical levels in some areas, ambulance waiting times increased significantly, and intensive care staffing ratios were stretched from 1:1 to as high as 1:4 in some places.3
The report states that collapse was narrowly avoided due to the extraordinary operational pressures managed by healthcare staff.3
Indirect Harms and System Pressures
Disruptions to cancer screening and reduced attendance for urgent conditions, such as heart attacks, contributed to delayed diagnoses and avoidable harm.3
Public health messaging aimed at protecting the NHS may have discouraged some patients from seeking timely care.3
Shortages of personal protective equipment and early gaps in infection control guidance added further strain, while many staff experienced burnout and post-traumatic stress.3
Implications for Future NHS Pandemic Preparedness
Together, these findings suggest that although some improvements have been made since COVID-19, significant challenges remain.
With the union Unison warning 21,000 NHS roles could be cut by 2028, this may further influence perceptions of capacity and preparedness.4
For healthcare professionals, the data highlights the need for sustained investment in workforce capacity, infrastructure, and pandemic planning to mitigate risks in future health emergencies.
References
- Seven in ten NHS workers say the health service is poorly prepared for another pandemic. 2026. Available at: https://yougov.com/en-gb/articles/54530-seven-in-ten-nhs-workers-say-the-health-service-is-poorly-prepared-for-another-pandemic. Last accessed: 22 April 2026.
- HCP Ombnibus internal results. 2026. Available at: https://ygo-assets-websites-editorial-emea.yougov.net/documents/YouGov_NHS_workers_pandemic_preparedness_April_2026.pdf. Last accessed: 22 April 2026.
- BBC News. Stay at home advice questioned and rules too tough – key findings from Covid report. 2026. Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c87wg0lvnxjo. Last accessed: 22 April 2026.
- BBC News. NHS Trust confirms plans to cut 600 roles by 2028. 2026. Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cevkp8lk4jgo#:~:text=A%20spokesperson%20said%3A%20%22Like%20many,be%20cut%20nationally%20by%202028. Last accessed: 22 April 2026.
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