The UK’s leading infection societies have published a major new report calling for urgent investment in the infection-specialist workforce, warning that without coordinated action the country risks being underprepared for future health threats.
The report, Infection Prevention and Management in the UK: The Infection-Specialist Workforce, was developed collaboratively by professional societies and experts across infection prevention, microbiology, virology, pharmacy, nursing, public health and laboratory science, including the Infection Prevention Society (IPS).
It highlights the growing pressures facing infection services, including antimicrobial resistance, increasing patient complexity and the ongoing threat of pandemics, while warning of a potential workforce crisis if action is not taken.
The report also outlines how infection specialists can support the ambitions of the NHS 10 Year Plan by strengthening prevention, expanding community-based care and supporting digital innovation through improved surveillance, diagnostics and data sharing.
Alongside strengthening infection prevention and management training for all healthcare professionals, the report calls for expanded training capacity and workforce development across specialist infection roles.
IPS President Jude Robinson said: “IPS is proud to have contributed to this important report alongside colleagues from across the infection prevention community.
“Infection specialists play a vital role in protecting patients and communities, supporting health, care and public health services, and strengthening preparedness for future health threats. Sustained investment in this workforce is essential to ensure our health and care systems remain resilient, effective and equipped to meet growing challenges.”
The report launch is being supported by a Federation of Infection Societies workforce webinar on 3 June, featuring a keynote address from Professor Chris Whitty, England’s Chief Medical Officer. Book now.
