The results of the national NHS staff survey 2023 have been published and we’re pleased that our results are improving. Last year, 41.3% of our staff shared their experiences in the confidential survey and our scores are higher than in 2021 and 2022 in almost every area.

We’re particularly delighted to see that our staff are more motivated and feel comfortable raising concerns, and our leaders are seen to be more compassionate. This has been helped by our work over the past year with The Guardian Service around Freedom To Speak Up, and with The King’s Fund to develop our senior leaders.

But it is clear that there is still work to do.

Many staff spoke about facing unrealistic time pressures, experiencing burnout and inequality in career progression.

And too many of our staff face discrimination, sexual harassment and violence, issues that no one should have to experience when they come into our hospitals, whether it’s to work or to receive care.

We have already started addressing this with the launch of our No Abuse No Excuse campaign and by signing up to NHS England’s sexual safety charter.

Chief Executive Matthew Trainer said: “While we’re moving in the right direction, the survey highlights areas where we need to take action to improve the experiences of our staff.

“I’d like to thank my colleagues who responded. The survey shapes how we make improvements throughout the year and we’ll keep staff informed about our progress so they know we’re taking their concerns seriously.”