QVH to progress with a strategic partnership to secure its future sustainability

Queen Victoria Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (QVH) has confirmed its intention to progress a strategic partnership to ensure the long-term sustainability and resilience of its specialist services.

Following a detailed and robust appraisal process with clinical, staff, patient and stakeholder input, the Board of Directors considered a proposal at its meeting in public today (16 December 2025) to proceed with a partnership with Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust and Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust group (RSFT & ASPH). A potential strategic partnership with Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust (SASH) had also been considered.

Whilst the appraisal process was clear in the recommendation to form a strategic partnership with Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust and Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust group (RSFT & ASPH), QVH remains committed to working closely with Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust (SASH) and its other partners in tandem to ensure a system-wide approach that provides its patients and local communities the best possible care.

Abigail Jago, Acting Chief Executive Officer at QVH, said: “This is an important step for QVH as we look to secure our future and continue delivering world-class care for patients. A strategic partnership will help us strengthen our specialist services and support our long-term sustainability for the benefit of patients and staff, whilst retaining our unique identity.”

Jackie Smith, Chair of QVH, added: “The Board’s recommendation reflects a thorough and inclusive process. We believe this partnership offers the best opportunity to strengthen QVH for the future, while continuing to work collaboratively with other NHS organisations for the benefit of patients across the region.”

Following the decision by QVH, the Boards of RSFT and ASPH will meet in the New Year. A period of mutual planning with QVH will follow.