NHS Employers has responded to reports that mental health issues and pressure are causing more NHS staff to take sick leave.
NHS Employers said that the NHS is significantly improving its culture around supporting staff wellbeing and that sickness rates have fallen slightly – but that growing pressure on the wider NHS is reflected in staff stress.
Danny Mortimer, chief executive of the NHS Employers organisation, said: “NHS staff are now more comfortable than they were at reporting stress and mental health problems. The culture in the NHS has improved demonstrably and there is more specialist support. But we cannot be complacent as progress is uneven and the NHS must keep innovating to endure ever-growing demand on its services.
“Frontline work in the NHS is rewarding but it can be emotionally and physically challenging, so it’s vital those staff have the right support.”
