NHS Providers: The link between tired staff and patient harm is clear

Responding to the report on NHS staff fatigue by the Health Services Safety Investigations Body (HSSIB), the interim chief executive of NHS Providers, Saffron Cordery, said:

“The link between tired staff and patient harm is clear, and we know trusts are worried about staff wellbeing and the impact on patients.  

“In recent years staff have faced mounting workload pressures including growing and increasingly complex demand for care, often in overcrowded or under-resourced facilities, and in the face of severe staff shortages. 

“These concerns came through loud and clear in the NHS staff survey, and there's no sign of any let-up.  

“Steps to protect and enhance staff wellbeing and reduce the risk of fatigue must be a priority at every level, and HSSIB is right to highlight the potential risks associated with staff fatigue in implementing national initiatives on workforce challenges and care delays.

“The forthcoming refreshed NHS Long Term Workforce Plan offers an opportunity to address and improve staff wellbeing.”