The new membership body will launch in April having concluded its legal merger on 13 January.

Lord Victor Adebowale, chair of the NHS Confederation and NHS Providers (and soon-to-be inaugural chair of The NHS Alliance), said: ‘As the NHS Confederation and NHS Providers, we have not come together to be bigger: we have come together to be braver, more influential and to provide greater support to our members. 

‘Our members told us clearly and consistently that the NHS needs a stronger and more unified voice, which can be used to speak with authority across the whole system. That is what I am determined The NHS Alliance will be. 

‘We will aim to provide outstanding support and value for money for our members, while bringing the collective weight of our membership in pursuit of a higher performing NHS and healthier nation.  

‘The NHS needs collective leadership right now and I am excited by what The NHS Alliance will deliver for all parts of the health and care system.'

Sir Ciarán Devane, currently chair of the Health Service Executive (HSE) in Ireland, was announced as the new body's chief executive in January.

Further details about The NHS Alliance, such as its branding, engagement channels (including its networks and forums) and its executive team will be announced in due course.