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Trust to offer staff free hospital parking

Milton Keynes University Hospital is taking action to reduce its nurse vacancy rate
'free parking' sign

Milton Keynes University Hospital is taking action to reduce its nurse vacancy rate


Picture: iStock

Free staff parking, flexible working and new staff rooms are promised by an employer in a bid to boost staff recruitment and retention.

Milton Keynes University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (MKUH) is acting to reduce its 16% nursing vacancy rate and in response to staff feedback.

First phase of benefits programme

Initiatives expected by the summer – with more expected later – include:


Chief executive Joe Harrison.
Picture: Tim George

  • Free car parking for staff – the trust will absorb the loss of income from parking fees
  • Flexible working with electronic rostering – all staff and not just those with caring responsibilities will be able to book their own shifts
  • Investment in staff rooms with free tea and coffee and encouragement to take scheduled breaks
  • New showers and secure bicycle storage to encourage 'green travel'

Trust chief executive Joe Harrison told Nursing Standard: 'We want to be the employer of choice so we asked our staff what they wanted. Ideas included everything from a nail bar to flexible working, special leave and, not surprisingly, car parking,' he said.

'There aren’t enough nurses in the workforce nationally and we want to do the best we can to retain those we have. So, we are trying to make sure people who are moving towards retirement, and who have given their heart and soul to the NHS, are kept in a flexible way. People who feel valued stay in the NHS and keep working.'


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