This report sets out how the NHS is in dire need of more anaesthetists. Anaesthetists play a critical role across many NHS services, and most operations require an anaesthetist to be present in order to take place. Unfortunately, across the UK, NHS services are at least 1,400 anaesthetists short, preventing one million operations from taking place per year and increasing expenditure on expensive agency locum staff. The report also sets out new workforce projections that show the gap between the supply and demand of anaesthetists is set to grow dramatically. Unless urgent action is taken, the UK will be 11,000 anaesthetists short by 2040. This is due to a combination of rising demand due to factors such as a growing and aging population and inadequate supply due to insufficient training places, and poor retention.