Surrey Hospital Staff Face Burnout Crisis

Staff at East Surrey Hospital have highlighted significant issues, including widespread burnout and feeling undervalued. A recent report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) revealed these concerns among employees.

The CQC inspection in November also noted a downgrade in the leadership rating for the Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, which operates the hospital. The trust's leadership was moved from 'outstanding' to 'requires improvement'.

Inspectors were particularly concerned that many staff felt unsafe to voice their concerns. They heard that raising issues through formal channels was difficult, with fears of reprisal and unresolved problems. This situation risks leaving potential dangers unaddressed.

Furthermore, the report indicated that staff from ethnic minority backgrounds and those with disabilities experienced worse conditions. This included higher rates of bullying and harassment, alongside fewer career advancement opportunities compared to their colleagues.