Hello reader,

The NHS is facing its biggest crisis in its history due to years of chronic underfunding, serious staff shortages and the needs of an ageing population. There is a backlog of almost 10 million people across the UK waiting for hospital care.

While recent news that community pharmacies will now offer treatment for minor conditions without GP appointments may be a welcome move, the government still needs to resolve the longstanding issues concerning the health service.

With the next general election expected later this year, what policies and reforms should we demand to drastically improve our health and social care systems? Can we recover the NHS's founding principle: to be there for everyone, whenever and wherever they need it?

On Tuesday 27 February, I'll be chairing a special livestreamed event with a panel of experts, including the executive co-chair of the National Care Association, Narda Ahmed; the chief analyst at The King's Fund, Siva Anandaciva; the president of the Association of Directors of Public Health UK, Greg Fell and consultant psychiatrist Dr Trudi Seneviratne, the chair of the The Royal College of Psychiatrists. Join us and share your suggestions for a political manifesto that aspires to secure the NHS for generations to come.

Book your tickets here.

I hope to see you there.

Denis Campbell
Health policy editor, the Guardian