Safe staffing and flexibility key factors for future of NHS

Health conference delegates this afternoon considered two key factors that are leading colleagues to leave the NHS, notably the lack of flexible working and safe staffing levels. UNISON lay leaders recently presented the Pay Review Body with evidence showing that over a third of staff were currently considering leaving their NHS jobs. That’s on top of the thousands of disgruntled health workers who have already done so over the past decade. Introducing a composite motion, Stuck in the vicious circle – staffing levels, career development and flexibility, Wilma Brown of the health service group executive (HSGE) – pictured above – told conference that many members felt completely unable to manage a healthy work-life balance because of the lack of flexibility in their jobs, something that was particularly problematic for working parents. Many were choosing to leave the NHS for agency work, despite poorer pay and conditions, merely because it allowed them greater control over their hours. Speaking of the stress, burnout and even post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) currently being reported by health members battling the pandemic and its consequences, Ms Brown said: “Staff are suffering – moved around constantly to fill gaps, often working extra hours. And as winter fast approaches there is no let up, no cavalry coming over the hill to save them from what many describe as a waking nightmare.” And she added: “We can’t afford to lose any more of our colleagues....
Source: UNISON Health care news - Category: UK Health Authors: Tags: Article News 2021 Virtual Health Conference Source Type: news