News

After the pandemic: £5million to boost workforce mental health and well-being

Nurses in Scotland are promised enhanced workplace mental health support
A nurse in PPE stands slumped against a corridor wall

Nurses in Scotland are promised enhanced workplace mental health support


Picture: iStock

A £5 million boost to mental health services for health and care staff in Scotland is a welcome step, said the RCN.

The funding is intended to bolster support for nursing and other staff in the NHS and independent sector, following the initial peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Enhanced psychological support online

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the money would pay for expansion of digital resources including psychological interventions offered through the National Wellbeing Hub, a resource for health and care staff in Scotland.


Norman Provan of RCN Scotland

The money will also enable health boards to offer therapies to staff. In addition, a new service will provide confidential mental health assessment and treatment for the healthcare workforce.

Emotional toll of the pandemic

RCN Scotland associate director Norman Provan said: ‘The pandemic has highlighted the pressure and emotional challenges faced by Scotland’s health and care staff.

‘It is vital employers are supported to do all they can to protect the mental health and well-being of nursing and other staff, if Scotland is to attract and retain the workforce it needs. The announcement of funding and dedicated services that recognise the unique challenges health and care staff face, is a welcome step.’


In other news

 

Jobs