The NHS has experienced unprecedented challenges in recent years and the effects of these continue to be felt, not only at the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, but across the country.

The results from the 2022 NHS Staff Survey reflect these challenges and despite some decline in results the Trust is very pleased that the Royal Devon remains above average when compared to similar trusts.

All NHS organisations take part in the NHS Staff Survey and colleagues are asked to anonymously share their views about their workplace and job satisfaction.

This is the first NHS staff survey for the Royal Devon as an integrated trust and the key results are outlined below:

• The Royal Devon scored above average in six of the seven people promise elements and the staff engagement and morale themes
• 58% of staff reported that the organisation takes positive action about their health and wellbeing, against an average of 56%
• Colleagues reported that colleagues they work with are understanding and kind to one another (75% compared to 70% national average) and are polite and treat each other with respect (76% compared to 71% national average)

Suzanne Tracey, Chief Executive Officer at the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Our people are our number one asset and I’m grateful to each and every one of them for the work they do for our patients.

“I’d like to thank everyone who shared their feedback. The staff survey is such an important measure of how we are doing and I’m really pleased to see such positive results, as we strive to make sure the Royal Devon is a great place to work.

“We are working with colleagues to discuss the results and capture additional feedback. We will develop plans to respond to the survey, addressing any areas where we want to improve and understanding what we can learn from the areas we do well.”