Fewer people in England are waiting for NHS care

Latest NHS waiting times data shows that the number of people waiting for planned treatment has fallen. 

According to the NHS, an estimated 6.23 million patients were waiting for treatment at the end of April 2025, down from 6.25 million patients at the end of March 2025.

Responding to the news, Chris McCann, Deputy Chief Executive of Healthwatch England said: 

“It is encouraging to see that NHS waiting times are improving, but with over six million people on the list, they remain at a level many patients find unacceptable. 

“The NHS has a plan to cut waiting times for tests and treatments and is receiving extra investment. But, the NHS must do more to reduce waiting lists fairly. 

“Our research indicates that people from ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled individuals, women, and those with low incomes often experience longer waits.

“Therefore, we are urging the NHS to publish data on waiting list health inequalities so it's clear who is waiting the longest and more resources can be focused on supporting them.”