Health staff encouraged to share views

Health Secretary Matt Hancock is launching a new digital platform called ‘TalkHealthandCare’ to give 3.1 million health and care staff in England a voice in the day-to-day creation of policy.

‘TalkHealthandCare’, which staff can use to post ideas, questions and challenges for government, will be available on computers, phones and tablets and will continually update to reflect the views and ideas of staff.

Launched in response to feedback from staff that too often they do not feel valued at work, will seek views on improving shift patterns and juggling home and work lives, speeding up the use of helpful technologies that cut out paperwork, as well as training and development. Additionally, Hancock has expressed concern about the high number of reports of bullying and harassment.

The department is also launching a new workforce panel of staff who the Secretary of State will meet with as a sounding board on issues affecting health and care staff across the country.

Speaking at Southmead Hospital, Hancock is expected to say: “Millions of hard-working health and care staff turn up to work every day to meet any challenges tirelessly, with unending compassion. But they don’t just do this for money or other contract benefits. They do it to improve and save the lives of countless strangers, and in return it’s only right that they are valued, supported and developed.

“But too often health and care employers, despite the NHS being the world’s fifth largest employer, don’t get this right. It’s time we hear from health and care staff about what they really have to say about the jobs that are at the heart of this country. Nobody knows what needs improving more than hard-working staff themselves, so my message is clear: we are listening to you, we want your views, and we will use them to ensure the long-term plan for the NHS helps you.”