The Elective Capital Incentive Scheme, launched this year, rewards providers that have delivered the largest improvements in referral‑to‑treatment (RTT) performance over a sustained period, including reducing the size of their overall waiting list. It supports the national ambition to return to the RTT Constitutional Standard, which requires 92% of patients to begin treatment within 18 weeks of referral.

Jonathan Coulter, chief executive at Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust said: ‘We are delighted to receive this recognition from NHS England. This funding is a testament to the efforts of our staff to deliver timely, high quality care.

‘Since September, our waiting list has reduced by another 900 patients, showing sustained improvement. Several specialties have achieved the 92% RTT performance target, meaning patients are receiving treatment more quickly from the point of referral.

‘This funding will enable us to build on our great progress and continue to transform elective services for our communities.'

To qualify for funding, HDFT had to meet scheme targets between April and September 2025, including improvements in 18-week RTT performance, reductions in overall waiting lists and fewer patients waiting more than 52 weeks.

Over this period HDFT achieved a 5.47% improvement in 18-week RTT performance and reduced its overall waiting list by over 1,000 patients (4.7%). No patients were waiting over 52 weeks for treatment.

Improvements were made through a targeted programme to increase capacity, streamline pathways and improve patient flow across elective services. Key actions included in-depth service reviews using data-driven evidence to support change.

Services ran additional clinics, maximised the use of operating theatres, and outpatient and inpatient activity was aligned to meet demand. Specialties and areas with the longest waiting lists were focussed on to deliver improvements in waiting times.

The other trusts to be awarded funding are:

• The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (14.1% improvement in the 18-week referral-to-treatment target)
• Royal Papworth Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (9.10% improvement)
• University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust (8.86% improvement)
• Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust (7.87% improvement)
• London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust (6.89% improvement)
• University Hospital Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust (5.35% improvement)
• University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (4.62% improvement).