NHS staff report record levels of discrimination from the public

University courses Medicine & Psychology
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Frontline NHS staff are facing record levels of discrimination from the public, with one in 12 staff reporting instances while treating patients, according to the results of a national staff survey. NHS trusts are implementing measures to protect staff, including the rollout of body cams to ambulance trusts. Despite this, the survey reveals that NHS workers feel happier and experience less burnout compared to the start of the pandemic.

However, the survey also highlights concerning levels of sexual harassment experienced by staff, with over 58,000 incidents reported in 2023. The NHS has launched initiatives to address this issue, including the Sexual Safety Charter and the appointment of domestic abuse and sexual violence leads. While staff are more empowered to raise incidents of harassment, bullying, or abuse, medical and dental staff have reported a decrease in confidence in raising clinical safety concerns. Overall, the survey indicates improvements in staff wellbeing and opportunities for career development, attributed to initiatives such as flexible working options and the NHS Long Term Workforce Plan.

https://www.england.nhs.uk/2024/03/nhs-staff-report-record-levels-of-discrimination-from-the-public/

3 Likes
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I’m relieved to hear that despite these challenges, NHS workers are feeling happier and experiencing less burnout but the level of sexual harassment reported is concerning. I hope that initiatives like the Sexual Safety Charter will make an impact in addressing this issue

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it’s great to see initiatives like body cams and the Sexual Safety Charter stepping up to protect them. Still, it’s a red flag that medical and dental staff feel less confident about raising safety concerns.