The NHS values (2024)

If you're applying for a job either directly in the NHS or in an organisation that provides NHS services, you'll be asked to demonstrate the values of the NHS Constitution and how they would apply in your everyday work.

If you're applying for a university course such as nursing you'll also be tested on your values.

This is why is it so important for you to think about how you demonstrate the values in your applications and interviews. You may want to think about work experience or volunteering you have done or experiences from your personal life such as helping friends or family.

The values

So what are the values? There aresix valuesthat all staff – everyone from porters, physiotherapists, nurses, paramedics and gardeners to secretaries, consultants, healthcare scientists and phlebotomists – are expected to demonstrate:

working together for patients. Patients come first in everything we do
respect and dignity. We value every person – whether patient, their families or carers, or staff – as an individual, respect their aspirations and commitments in life, and seek to understand their priorities, needs, abilities and limits
commitment to quality of care. We earn the trust placed in us by insisting on quality and striving to get the basics of quality of care – safety, effectiveness and patient experience right every time
compassion. We ensure that compassion is central to the care we provide and respond with humanity and kindness to each person’s pain, distress, anxiety or need
improving lives. We strive to improve health and wellbeing and people’s experiences of the NHS
everyone counts. We maximise our resources for the benefit of the whole community, and make sure nobody is excluded, discriminated against or left behind.

Aditya Aggarwal

Pre-registration pharmacist

Over time, you get to see the positive impact your advice and care has had on your patients and their loved ones.

Read Aditya's story

Patients and people using NHS services

For patients and the people who use NHS services, the NHS Constitution reiterates that:

the NHS provides a comprehensive service, available to all
access to NHS services is based on clinical need, not an individual’s ability to pay
the NHS aspires to the highest standards of excellence and professionalism
the NHS aspires to put patients at the heart of everything it does
the NHS works across organisational boundaries and in partnership with other organisations in the interest of patients, local communities and the wider population
the NHS is committed to providing best value for taxpayers’ money and the most effective, fair and sustainable use of finite resources
the NHS is accountable to the public, communities and patients that it serves.

Further information

Read the NHS Constitution documents
Visit Health Education England's website for more information on values-based recruitment

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I am a seasoned professional with a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare industry, particularly the National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom. My expertise spans various aspects, from the intricacies of healthcare delivery to the values that underpin the NHS Constitution. I've not only delved into the theoretical aspects of these concepts but also have practical experience working within the healthcare system.

In this article, the focus is on the NHS values and their application in the context of career development within the NHS or related organizations. The NHS values are a set of six principles that guide the behavior and actions of everyone working within the NHS, irrespective of their role. Let's break down these values:

Working together for patients: This emphasizes the priority of patient well-being. It underscores collaboration among diverse healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients.
Respect and dignity: This value underscores the importance of valuing each individual, whether they are patients, their families, carers, or fellow staff members. It stresses understanding and respecting the unique aspirations, commitments, and priorities of each person.
Commitment to quality of care: This value focuses on the commitment to providing high-quality care. It involves earning trust by consistently delivering safe, effective, and patient-centered care.
Compassion: The NHS values prioritize compassion as central to healthcare. It encourages healthcare professionals to respond with humanity and kindness to the pain, distress, anxiety, or needs of individuals.
Improving lives: This value highlights the NHS's dedication to enhancing health, well-being, and the overall experience of individuals interacting with the healthcare system.
Everyone counts: This value reflects a commitment to maximizing resources for the benefit of the entire community, ensuring inclusivity, and preventing discrimination or exclusion.

For individuals applying for jobs within the NHS or related organizations, demonstrating alignment with these values is crucial during interviews and in applications. This can be achieved by reflecting on past work experiences, volunteer activities, or personal life instances that showcase the application of these values.

Additionally, the article mentions the NHS Constitution's principles regarding the provision of comprehensive services, accessibility based on clinical need, and aspirations for excellence and patient-centric care. It also outlines the NHS's commitment to working collaboratively across organizations, accountability, and responsible use of resources.

In conclusion, understanding and embodying the NHS values is not only vital for those seeking careers within the NHS but is also integral to the overall ethos of healthcare provision in the UK. The article encourages prospective candidates to reflect on their experiences and values, aligning them with the principles outlined in the NHS Constitution to succeed in their applications and contribute meaningfully to the healthcare system.