The boards of trustees of both organisations agreed the decision, subject to there being no material issues emerging from the due diligence, after it was backed by 85% of members.

Lord Victor Adebowale, chair of NHS Confederation and Professor Sir Terence Stephenson, chair of NHS Providers, said: ‘Our members have told us loud and clear they want one clear voice for the NHS to represent and support them to improve care on behalf of their local communities. Coming together into a single membership body will enable us to do that more effectively.

‘This is a very challenging time for the NHS and our members. We believe this step will enable us to better represent and support the entire NHS - to foster collaboration and support learning between all parts of the system to deliver higher quality care and better value for patients, the public and taxpayers.

‘We will now work at pace to deliver the renewed organisation that our members have asked for.'

A new membership offer will be launched in March 2026 and will start from 1 April.

A transition committee drawing from trustees across both current boards will be set up before a final board is established. A new leadership and staffing structure will be in place by the end of March 2026, including an external recruitment process for the new chief executive.

A review of brand identity to reflect the new organisation is also underway.