30 January 2004
NHS staff working in London are happier in their jobs than three years ago, according to a major new survey.
The Institute for Employment Studies' three-year study of staff attitudes will be a fillip to ministers and follows a number of positive reports on the state of the health service recently.
The survey, carried out for the capital's health authorities and trusts, found more job satisfaction and that staff were given more opportunities for training and development.
NHS workers felt health and safety had improved and gave a higher approval rating to their line managers.
The IES said this was important, as people who gave higher scores for their line manager also reported feeling valued, were more satisfied with their pay and had a greater commitment to their employer.
Report author Dilys Robinson said the report should encourage all London's health care workers and patients.
She said: 'The survey findings offer evidence that action is being taken to address the everyday concerns of NHS employees. Much of the action taken may be very simple — ensuring that all staff are treated with respect, listening, giving positive feedback when it's deserved — but it's fundamental.'
However, the survey highlighted areas for improvement. Staff continue to be dissatisfied with pay and benefits, although this apparently is a fairly common finding in staff surveys.
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