Government to Implement Report on Improving Wellbeing of NHS Workforce
The British Government has accepted in totality the recommendations of the Boorman Report that looks into the health and wellbeing of the NHS employees. This was announced by Health Secretary Andy Burnham.
The report that contains 20 recommendations has been commissioned by the Department of Health and led by Dr Steve Boorman. It is likely to save about 3.4 million working days and 555million pounds per year after its proposals are put into effect.
The report calls for the formulation and implementation of a health and welfare scheme for all NHS workers that will focus on prevention rather than cure. The report also seeks to make the senior management accountable for the fitness and wellbeing of staff. It recommends an annual assessment of the progress made after implementation of employee heath and welfare measures.
The report proposes early intervention for workers with musculo-skeletal and mental health ailments so that their problems are reduced and they do not stay away from work for long periods.
Burnham said the aim of the NHS is to improve the health and wellbeing of the public, and this cannot be done unless the NHS workers do not receive proper care. He said this is why he is accepting Steve Boorman’s recommendations and is committed to ensuring that they are introduced by NHS organisations. He hopes the plan would actually prove advantageous to the NHS staff and the patients will consequently be benefited.
Burnham added that the Government wants to set up NHS as an example before all other organisations by caring for its workforce like its patients. He noted that the savings of about 555million pounds arising out of the plan’s execution could be reinvested for patient care, and that this will save taxpayers’ money.
The Department of Health has brought out an action plan for the realization of the report’s proposals and has allotted 6.5million pounds for the same.
All organisations need to make appropriate efforts to protect the well-being of staff. CIPD courses are easily accessible and accredited training is provided by reputable companies such as Workplace Law. The Certificate in HR Practice imparts training and help to managers in the preparation of appropriate policies and procedures to successfully help employers tackle stress in the workplace.
