Full story on Open Democracy, 19 September 2018
NHS trusts in England are setting up wholly owned subsidiaries (WOSs) in a bid to avoid tax. And the dangers inherent in are becoming increasingly apparent in terms of threats to patient services and jobs.
Worryingly there are about 40 of these entities announced or already up-and-running in England’s NHS – for estates staff (from management to electricians) as well as porters, cleaners and other key support staff. Many out-patient pharmacies in hospitals have gone the same way.
But there are signs the tide is finally turning. Tees Esk and Wear Valley NHS Trust has just announced it has ditched its plans to create a wholly owned subsidiary.
