NHS staff survey results – our response
The Association of Anaesthetists is dismayed by findings in this year’s NHS Staff Survey that show discrimination, racism, unwanted sexual behaviour and violence continue to affect patients and staff.
We are particularly concerned by findings that show an increase in staff reporting unwanted behaviour of a sexual nature from patients or the public. Every NHS trust is signed up to the NHS Sexual Safety Charter, and we call on the government and trusts to do more to make the NHS a safer place to work.
We welcome findings that show staff reported improved “compassionate leadership” and support from mangers, however, findings that show a third of colleagues aged 21-30 “often” think about leaving their organisation” are troubling and should raise serious concerns.
With ongoing shortages across the health service and in anaesthetics, the government and NHS must do more to support its staff, especially younger colleagues. We look forward to detail in the 10-Year Workforce Plan on how the government will do that.
The Association is committed to a fairer and more equal health service. We reiterate our call for the government and healthcare leaders to do more to make the NHS a safer and fairer environment for its staff and the patients they serve.