The Royal College of Anaesthetists (RCOA) has welcomed the publication of the NHS staff survey results. The College says the survey shows that there has been encouraging progress in relation to flexible working, career progression and satisfaction with line manager support.
However, Professor Ravi Mahajan, President of the RCOA, said this progress masks considerable concerns in other areas.
“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,” he said.
He said the College is “looking forward to the forthcoming People Plan, which has the potential to be transformative for staff, patients and the NHS”.
He said “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”.
