Research into faith and belief in the NHS
NHS Employers is working with Dr Ying Fei Héliot of the University of Surrey to research the views and experiences of staff about religious expression in the workplace. As part of this primary research, we carried out a survey to better understand the impact of faith and belief staff networks on staff wellbeing and access to quiet spaces. This survey closed on 30 June 2025.
These insights are even more significant following the summer 2024 riots and the increase we have witnessed in violence, antisemitism, racism and Islamophobia. We know these events impact staff working within the NHS, especially those who visibly represent, or appear to represent, a religious group.
The survey findings will be analysed by Dr Héliot, following which recommendations will be published later this year to help NHS organisations improve staff experience and shape more inclusive and respectful workplaces through effective use of staff networks. In the meantime, access the phase one research conducted in 2023.
For further information please email Dr Ying Fei Héliot at y.heliot@surrey.ac.uk
Access further information and resources
- Read findings from a previous study by the University of Surrey on religious identity and working in the NHS. The findings were cited in the NHS EDI Improvement Plan as evidence that religious identity is an often overlooked area in the NHS. In addition, further recommendations can be found in the university's 2022 report on influencing and supporting religious identity in the NHS through faith competency.
- Visit our religion, dress codes and chaplaincy page to access guidance and resources to help NHS organisations manage religious diversity within their workplace.
- Read guidance published by the NHS Staff Council's Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Group on improving staff equality networks through partnership working.
- Access this toolkit published by NHS England on developing your NHS staff network.
- Find out about NHS England's Chaplaincy Programme, learn more about healthcare chaplaincy and download their chaplaincy guidelines.
