Unite the union, which represents over 100,000 workers in the NHS, has called for maximum sensitivity and full consultation with unions to deal with the mental health challenges health workers face as a result of the pandemic.

Unite made its comments following a report produced by the NHS Confederation, which represents NHS organisations, that called for ‘local leaders’ to ensure staff have ‘decompression time’ to deal with the effects of the pandemic.

Unite national officer for health Jackie Willams said: “Unite’s research has revealed that workers across the whole of the NHS including porters, cleaners, paramedics, nurses and doctors are suffering from increased mental health issues including depression, anxiety and in extreme cases post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as a result of the pandemic.

“All workers need the appropriate help and support to recover from their experiences and it is essential that employers treat these challenges with the maximum amount of sensitivity. Every worker has been affected differently.

 “The NHS Confederation is recommending that ‘local leaders’ take the initiative on mental health but it is absolutely critical to guarantee workers’ buy in that this is done in full consultation with the relevant NHS unions.”

ENDS

Notes to editors:

During the coronavirus crisis Unite is working to keep workers and the public safe, to defend jobs and to protect incomes.

For media enquiries ONLY please contact Unite senior communications officer Barckley Sumner on 07802 329235 or 0203 371 2067.

Email: [email protected]

Unite is Britain and Ireland’s largest union with members working across all sectors of the economy. The general secretary is Len McCluskey.