Key Challenges
A key challenge affecting our workforce is the residual effect of the pandemic, in particular staff stress and ‘burn out’. We have seen changes to patterns of work, the digitisation of our work environment and a move towards home working. There are a range of issues affecting the wellbeing of our workforce which will have an impact on productivity and efficiency.
We need to recognise the turnover issue as subscribing to One Wakefield workforce and regulator challenges as independent employers across a place and a system. This links the supply issue within the local health and social care economy. We need to articulate ‘why Wakefield’ as an attractive place to work and create a sense of belonging for those living outside Wakefield despite cities such as Leeds having more national coverage.
Workforce shortages in mental health, learning disability and primary care services are affecting clinicians’ workload, wellbeing and morale. (BMA Workforce Report, Feb22). We need to ensure that staff can access occupational health services so that they are better able to manage workloads and avoid burnout. Staff also need better access to training and time for reflective practice. The BMA reports that 50% of staff in mental health services say that access to training is getting worse. 57% of staff reported that access to time for reflective practice has reduced.
Another key challenge for the health and social care system is the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on our workforce. Staff are facing additional fuels costs associated with travelling to work and when they have to travel as part of their job. They area also having to deal with increased inflation in their personal finances. We will need to address the impact of increased inflation and fuel costs on our workforce as part of this pillar.
