Greater Manchester ICB has revealed that almost 200 staff left at the end of January as part of the voluntary redundancy scheme.
The ICB confirmed that this comes as part of the national reforms which mean all ICBs have to reduce running costs to £19 per head of population, with Greater Manchester needing to reach a £42 million (39%) reduction.
It said that this 39% reduction is possible through organisational structural redesign and workforce reductions. The board is using the voluntary scheme first to help prevent compulsory redundancies.
Colin Scales, acting chief executive, NHS Greater Manchester said: ‘Like other integrated care boards across England, NHS Greater Manchester has been required to reduce its running costs as part of national NHS changes.
‘We are reshaping the organisation while continuing to plan, coordinate and improve health and care services, and health outcomes for the people of Greater Manchester. Staff are currently being consulted on proposed changes, and no redundancies will take place while consultation is ongoing.’
He added: ‘We know this is a difficult time for many colleagues and has been anticipated for some time. We recognise how challenging it can be to work through change. Our priority is to treat staff with fairness and care, protect jobs where possible, and support colleagues throughout this process.
‘We have already identified £6 million in operating costs, ensured critical services are maintained, and are using voluntary redundancy carefully to protect essential services and key roles where possible.’
Mr Scales added: ‘We are deeply grateful for the professionalism, commitment, and pride our staff have shown in serving the people of Greater Manchester. We remain committed to supporting all staff through this period of change.’
Greater Manchester ICB said the second phase of applications for voluntary redundancy is now open and it is the process of consulting on future structures and operating model.
In March 2025, ICBs were asked to reduce their workforce by 50%, which equates to around 12,500 staff across the health system.
And in May, NHS England’s draft blueprint of the future model of ICBs showed the ICB running cost envelope is to be reduced to £18.76 per head.
