NHS trusts have actually been asked to make drastic cuts as the service faces a predicted shortage of nearly ₤ 7 billion, cautioned today.

In a survey for NHS Providers, 47 per cent of trust leaders cautioned they are rolling back services to stabilize the books, while another 43 percent are considering doing so.

Rehabilitation centres, talking treatments and diabetes services for young individuals are among services at threat.

Eighty-six per cent of respondents stated their organisation is having to cut jobs in non-clinical groups, while 37 percent strategy to cut scientific posts.

A number of trusts are aiming to cut 500 jobs or more, with one preparation as many as 1,000.

NHS union Unison's head of health Helga Pile said: "Ministers shouldn't be insisting trusts stabilize their books while disregarding the harmful consequences for client care and a demoralised workforce.