NHS England chair Richard Meddings resigns amid strategic healthcare shifts

Post his resignation, Richard Meddings will continue to contribute in the creation of the 10-Year Health Plan, which he describes as “a significant opportunity to change the NHS”

Richard Meddings, the Chair of NHS England, has announced his decision to step down from his position at the end of March 2025.

Meddings, who has served in this role for nearly three years, described the decision as “a very difficult one,” but he believes it is the right time to resign and has notified Health Secretary Wes Streeting.

In a message to NHS England staff, Meddings stated: “As I approach the end of my first three-year term in the role, and having had discussions with the health secretary about what the NHS and social care will need over the next decade, I have decided that now is the right time for me to step down as chair.

“This has been a very difficult decision. The role of NHS England chair has been one of the most personally satisfying, demanding and challenging positions I’ve ever had.”

Despite his resignation, Meddings will continue to contribute to the development of the 10-year health plan over the coming months.

“I am clear that the plan is a significant opportunity to change the NHS, and the shifts set out by the government – to prevention, to primary and community care, and to digital – are the right long-term goals,” he said.

Streeting expressed his gratitude to Richard for the support he has provided to him and the ministerial team during their first months in office.

He said: “Richard has led the organisation through a period of significant internal change and unprecedented external challenges and has done so with the greatest dedication and integrity. From all of our conversations his commitment to the role has been evident.

“Those who have benefited from his leadership and stewardship of NHS England speak with warmth, affection and gratitude. I also want to say a personal thank you to Richard for the support he has given me and the ministerial team during our first months in office.”

Before joining the NHS, Meddings had a successful career spanning over 30 years in banking and financial services, including seven years on the HM Treasury board.

NHS chief executive Amanda Pritchard also expressed her appreciation for Meddings’ dedication to the NHS and his efforts in driving improvements and efficiencies within their services.

“He has been incredibly passionate about identifying, implementing and championing the solutions to the challenges that will help us to make the NHS fit for the future – from embracing the latest tech and innovations including the NHS App, genomic medicine and cancer vaccines to new models of care.

“I am personally grateful for the unwavering support he has given to me and our executive team as we have navigated what has been one of the most difficult periods for the NHS, for our staff and for our patients,” she said.

The Department of Health and Social Care plans to advertise the Chair position soon, allowing an open and competitive selection process, along with the necessary parliamentary approvals.