The NHS has always benefited from committed, and talented health staff both trained here in Britain and who have chosen to work here from abroad.

EU nationals form an integral and vital part of the health and care family, and your skills and compassionate care directly benefit patients, families and communities.

We are pleased that the Government has ensured that EU citizens living lawfully in the UK will be able to stay and enjoy broadly the same rights and benefits as they do now and welcome the Home Secretary’s letter to the NHS to confirm this.

Your vital contribution to our work together will continue and is greatly appreciated by all those we care for.

Simon Stevens, Chief Executive, NHS England,

Professor Sir Bruce Keogh National Medical Director, NHS England and

Professor Jane Cummings Chief Nursing Officer for England.