With around 1.5 million employees, the NHS is England’s largest employer. However, staff shortages are one of the factors causing NHS backlogs. Waiting lists are high and new plans are being introduced to address the challenges, yet this is only possible if more people are recruited into Health and Social Care positions. So, we put the spotlight on NHS staffing.
Why is there a Shortage of NHS Staff?
Every day, thousands of individuals work tirelessly to treat and care for our population. Using skills gained through years of training, they help us through an extensive range of health issues. Despite long shifts and often tough working conditions, they improve and extend our lives.
Unfortunately, the development of NHS services and recruitment of staff has not kept pace with demand. In an expanding and ageing population, there is ever increasing need for healthcare provision. As of June 2024, there were 32,738* registered nurse, midwife and health visitor vacancies.
Opportunities to Fill NHS Staff Vacancies
Brexit and Covid both resulted in the decline of NHS workers. However, there are signs that more young people are interested in healthcare professions. A UK University study** identified particular interest in midwifery and nursing. However, there were barriers to pursuing these careers, including financial and workplace pressures. Developing practical solutions could provide a future pipeline of talent to reduce NHS staffing issues.
In addition, we need robust systems to encourage the continued flow of international healthcare professionals. The fact is that the NHS could not operate without workers from abroad. They account for nearly a fifth of the workforce and a third of all doctors. Currently, international workers can apply for a 5-year visa as part of the UK Immigration policy.
At Tara Recruitment, we have made it our mission to connect qualified and experienced Healthcare professionals with roles. We offer tailored support to both individuals and care organisations to streamline the process. Based in Buckinghamshire, we can help your hospital, nursing home, GP surgery or community hub to fill positions for registered nurses, support workers, carers and healthcare assistants. Contact us to register your interest.
New Measures to Improve NHS Services
Plans are underway to address these issues and three key developments have been announced.
NHS Community Hubs
There are currently 165 centres across England offering medical tests and screening, including x-rays and ultrasound. These provide local diagnostic opportunities away from hospitals, which can streamline the process. One of these centres is The Glasshouse in Barnsley, which opened in 2022. In the first year, there was a 50% increase in the take up of breast screening, while waiting times for other tests were cut.
In addition, 50 new surgical centres are being built and equipped in England. With sufficient clinical teams, these specialist sites will help to reduce waiting times for operations.
Increasing the number of community hubs and surgical centres would alleviate pressures on hospitals. However, there is a need for surgeons, nurses, radiographers and support staff to make this viable.
Telecare
Digital technology can be used to treat some patients at home, referred to as virtual wards. Remote monitoring and text alerts to take medication, along with virtual consultancy and home visits if required are all possible. In some cases, home care can reduce anxiety and risks. However, efficient systems and staff are required to effectively manage telecare services.
Social Prescribing
Prevention is better and lower cost than treatment. Therefore, we as individuals need to take greater responsibility for our long-term health and well-being. Let’s start by building regular exercise into our weekly routines, such as a walk to the shops or gardening.
In addition, the NHS will focus on preventative measures. These include what is termed social prescribing. This is where people at risk of poor mental and physical health due to non-medical needs, including isolation, are engaged in local activities. Interaction with others, a sense of purpose, and increased movement can all boost well-being.
Achieving NHS Staffing Targets
There are targets to increase the NHS workforce by 2.6-2.9% each year. Financial incentives, such as cutting the cost of training, annual registration fees and hospital parking would be a start. In addition, UK immigration policy and specialist recruitment services will play a part in achieving this goal. As a nation, we need people to see that working for the NHS is a good career decision. The future of our health depends on it.
*Source: NHS England data
** Source: UK Universities Study