Developing careers and working practices are central to job satisfaction
23 June 2008
Career development and the opportunity to improve working practices provide the greatest job satisfaction for NHS staff, according to the first report into what motivates its employees.
The survey, which canvassed more than 9,000 staff, also found that providing support for workers to do a good job and adequate resources to deliver quality care are key to increasing motivation.
Clare Chapman, NHS director-general of workforce, said: “What Matters to NHS Staff is the first report into what motivates NHS staff and makes them feel supported in delivering a great service. We need to build on this evidence to help the NHS create a better working environment that will help to further improve the quality of patient care.”
The landmark report, published by the Department of Health (DoH), is backed the NHS Social Partnership Forum, which brings together the DoH, NHS Employers and trade unions.
Karen Jennings, head of health at Unison, said on behalf of the forum: “Staff are the essence of the NHS and it is critical we understand what is important to them.”
She added the report’s findings would inform the development of health policies and had already contributed to Lord Darzi’s next stage review.
Alistair Henderson, acting director of NHS Employers, said the report would reinforce the efforts of employers, trade unions and the government to “develop policies and practices that help our staff feel valued, empowered and able to make an even greater difference to patient care than they do already”.
The surveys were distributed across 48 NHS trusts and a range of GP practices.