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Virtual Wards

Asked by Sir Oliver DowdenConservativeDepartment of Health and Social CareTabled Answered 24 November 2025UIN 90755

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what the target number of virtual wards is in the NHS across England.

Answered by Karin Smyth

In October 2025, there were 12,588 virtual ward beds across England, with 10,049 being occupied by patients.

Whilst there is currently no specific national target for the number of virtual ward beds, the NHS England 2025/26 operational planning guidance includes a priority to improve access to care services at home or in the community, including virtual wards.

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