Preserving and protecting the health, safety and wellbeing of staff is critical for NHS organisations as they respond to the COVID-19 outbreak. It is essential that NHS organisations take every effort to support the physical and mental wellbeing of the workforce, to enable staff to stay healthy and protect themselves, colleagues, patients and families as we continue to deliver services through this challenging period.
The government is continually developing and reviewing plans to make sure individuals can rely on a wide range of help and support, be it essential health and care support, help with food shopping, or social and emotional support. The public sector, business, charities and the general public are gearing up to help those asked to protect themselves.
Public Health England (PHE), the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), NHS England and NHS Improvement, and NHS Employers are working closely with key stakeholders to provide signposting and guidance to support NHS organisations. Specific guidance has been developed for healthcare professionals and this should be referred to for the most up to date information.
There are a number of considerations that workforce and HR leaders need to be aware of to fully support the wellbeing of their workforce. The following areas should be reviewed and incorporated where required, into local implementation plans to preserve and protect staff health and wellbeing.