BPS welcomes new report highlighting evidence-based mental health and wellbeing interventions for NHS staff

We've welcomed a new report published today by NHS Providers, which highlights practical steps and innovations introduced by trusts to support staff wellbeing, with positive consequences for staff and patient care.

Providers Deliver: Enabling wellbeing within trusts presents a series of case studies where trusts from across hospital, mental health, community and ambulance sectors have responded to national data, local environments and direct staff feedback by investing in targeted interventions to support their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.

The case studies include a focus on the work of Lincolnshire Staff Wellbeing Support Hub, which has provided NHS staff with access to professional psychological support for almost 13 years.

The report concludes that 'access to clinically led support services is vital to anyone experiencing a mental health problem', and highlights the government's funding cut for NHS Staff Mental Health and Wellbeing Hubs which have been a lifeline for staff across England.

Dr Roman Raczka, President-Elect of the British Psychological Society, and Chair of its Division of Clinical Psychology, said:

"This report shines a welcome light on the positive impact evidence-based mental health and wellbeing initiatives are having on the NHS workforce across the country.

"It's particularly pleasing to see Lincolnshire Staff Wellbeing Support hub recognised for its long-term work providing psychologically informed services for staff members struggling with their mental health.

"This once again highlights the vital role psychologically led services play in supporting the workforce, alongside evidence-based complementary wellbeing initiatives tailored to local need.

"As this report highlights, access to clinically led support services is vital to anyone experiencing a mental health problem, and we agree that it is more pressing than ever to ensure the NHS workforce has access to confidential mental health support in their local area.

"Integrated Care Boards are set to make decisions about investment in staff mental health and wellbeing support in the months ahead. We urge them to recognise the fundamental role psychologically informed support for staff will have on delivering the NHS Long Term Workforce Plan, particularly in addressing high levels of sickness absence, and staff recruitment and retention."