NHS Staff Standards published
The Department of Health has today published the NHS Staff Standards. The standards set out a nationally required minimum standard, providing a clear framework for employers to improve staff experience.
The intention to create the NHS Staff Standards was announced in the NHS 10 Year Health Plan in July 2024. The standards have been developed by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) and NHS England through discussion with NHS unions staff side and with NHS Employers.
The standards cover six priority areas:
- Line management
- Health and wellbeing
- Tackling racism
- Promoting flexible working
- Violence prevention and reduction
- Championing sexual safety.
The standards will underpin the NHS People Promise and use existing frameworks for good employment practice.
The purpose of setting national standards is to address pockets of poor practice, reduce variation and support overall improvement in staff experience. This should have a positive impact on indicators such as absence and retention, and in turn enhance patient experience.
Implementation of the standards will be mandatory and will be reflected in the NHS Oversight Framework, which will draw on relevant staff survey questions as indicators. Employers will make their own regular assessment of progress and work with staff side and unions on implementation.
The NHS Social Partnership Forum, which brings together NHS employers, government and trade unions, has welcomed the introduction of the standards.
To support employers in implementing the standards, we have developed a hub of practical guidance, tools and resources to help you meet all six standards.
For more information, visit the GOV.uk website.
