There is a proven link between good people management practices in the NHS and increased staff engagement, reduced sickness absence and improved patient satisfaction. Good Work, Wellbeing and Changes in Performance in Outcomes, What Works Wellbeing, 2017.
Supportive leadership and effective line management is critical for promoting health and wellbeing in the workplace. Staff who have positive wellbeing are more engaged in their work, provide better patient care and are more likely to stay in their organisation.
Health and wellbeing activity has more positive outcomes when line managers buy-in to the importance of wellbeing – which is crucial for supporting staff in the workplace.
The number of staff that were satisfied with the support they got from their immediate manager has increased in the NHS staff survey since 2014 NHS Staff Survey 2018. Continuing to support and develop line managers in the NHS is essential to developing positive workplaces and improving the health and wellbeing of our workforce.
In your organisation:
- Do you set clear expectations for your managers, so they understand their responsibilities when supporting their staff with health and wellbeing?
- Is training and guidance available to managers to support the health and wellbeing of their teams?
Our information below will help you to support your line managers to improve the staff experience within their teams and collectively work towards making your organisation the best place to work.