Royal Devon delivers over 100,000 extra NHS appointments in Exeter in first year of Labour Government

Patients in Exeter have benefitted from more than 100,000 additional NHS appointments over the past year, according to new figures from the Royal Devon.

The boost is part of over five million extra appointments delivered across England since Labour came to power, as part of efforts to cut waiting lists and improve access to care.

The increase in capacity locally has been welcomed by Exeter MP Steve Race, who described it as “a huge step in the right direction for patients in our community.”

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He said: “The Tory government left the NHS with the longest waiting lists and the lowest patient satisfaction, meaning patients in Exeter have been struggling to get the healthcare they need.

The dedication of the NHS staff in Exeter, backed by more funding from a Labour government, means we are turning a corner. There’s much more to do, but these figures show clearly that this Labour Government is delivering for our community. I know from speaking to residents that people are already starting to feel the benefit.”

Nationally, the Government has set a target of cutting the longest waits for treatment from 18 months to 18 weeks by the end of the Parliament.

The Ten-Year Health Plan also promises a shift from hospital-based care towards community care, aiming to provide quicker, more convenient appointments closer to home.

“That is testament to the relentless efforts of NHS staff across the country, alongside key reforms and the extra £26 billion we’re investing to get waiting times down for patients,” he said.

Despite the progress, NHS services in Devon remain under significant pressure, with staff shortages and high demand continuing to stretch resources.

Local campaigners have said that while the rise in appointments is welcome, long-term investment in staff recruitment and retention will be vital if Exeter patients are to see sustained improvements.