RCoA response to the NHS Staff Survey

Professor Ravi Mahajan, President of the Royal College of Anaesthetists, said:

“The Royal College of Anaesthetists welcomes the publication of the NHS staff survey results. It is encouraging to see progress in flexible working, career progression and satisfaction with line manager support. Cultural change within the NHS is a key focus of the College and these are positive changes.

“However, this progress masks considerable concerns in other areas. The NHS’s struggle to retain current staff is putting a strain on healthcare workers, who are experiencing increasing work-related stress and pressure. Heath service leaders need to take the concerns of staff onboard, and develop a positive, inclusive, person-centred culture across the NHS.

“One of the most concerning aspects of the survey are the reports of bullying, abuse and harassment being faced on a daily basis. This negative culture contributes to low wellbeing and morale across the NHS. Staff need to feel safe and supported at their place of work and should be encouraged to come forward with their concerns.

“We look forward to the forthcoming People Plan, which has the potential to be transformative for staff, patients and the NHS. The NHS must now grasp the opportunity to put the emphasis on morale and wellbeing if we are to see action on workforce retention and staff burnout. Staff deserve to work in an environment where they feel valued and listened to, so the College reiterates its calls for the government to introduce a national staff morale and welfare strategy, which will be key in the fight for a truly sustainable NHS.”