7 Challenges Of Working For The NHS

If you’re thinking of working for the NHS, it’s important to be aware of the challenges you’ll face. The NHS is a huge organisation, and it can be difficult to navigate your way through the bureaucracy. There are also plenty of politics to deal with, and changes in policy can make your job more difficult. But despite these challenges, the NHS is still a great place to work, and there are plenty of opportunities for career development. 

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the biggest challenges that NHS employees face. We’ll also explore how these challenges can be overcome. So if you’re thinking about applying for a job with the NHS, read on to learn more about what you can expect!

What is it like working for the NHS?

Working for the NHS is a unique experience. It can be challenging, but it’s also extremely rewarding. There are many different career paths you can take within the NHS, so there’s something for everyone. 

Top tip: If you are planning a career in healthcare, you will need to complete an enhanced DBS check.

1. The current working environment is stressful 

The NHS is one of the largest employers in Europe, with over 1.5 million people working for it. However, the NHS is currently facing a workforce crisis despite its size. This means that the current working environment at the NHS is stressful and challenging for employees. 

After traumatic incidents (something NHS workers deal with often), there is very little time to reflect on the situation. Workers are often hurried into another working environment which results in them feeling stressed, worn-out, and 

2. NHS admin is taxing

The NHS is under a lot of pressure. This is because many people are using the service and the demand for services is high. In addition, there are not enough doctors and nurses to meet the demand. Therefore, the NHS has to rely on administrators to help manage the service. However, this is proving to be difficult because the administration process is very complex. As a result, many NHS administrators feel overwhelmed and stressed out. 

At times, work may seem tedious, not stimulating, and mundane for administration workers. However, it’s worth noting that the NHS has a good holiday scheme and sick-pay

3. Fast-paced

It’s no secret that the NHS is a fast-paced working environment. Nurses and other healthcare professionals are constantly on the go, helping patients and ensuring that they receive the best possible care. However, this can be both challenging and rewarding work, and it’s definitely not for everyone. 

If you’re looking for a career where you can make a real difference in people’s lives, then the NHS could be perfect for you. While the workspace is fast-paced, there are helpful coworkers and a supportive environment that is there to encourage you along the way.

4. Underpaid and overworked

The current pay structure of NHS workers, specifically nurses and administrative, doesn’t reflect the effort and skill sets that each staff member produces. 

While working in a hospital environment is extremely rewarding, it can be equally challenging.

5. Usually short-staffed

The NHS is also notoriously underfunded, which often leads to widespread staff shortages and overworked employees.

There are times when nurses burn out due to short staff. A shortage of staff means that an individual is double, and even tripling their workload, without compensation.

However, it’s the lovely patients who make each shift rewarding for an NHS worker, as well as the knowledge that staff are making an incredible difference in someone’s life. 

6. Overnights & weekend shifts are expected

Staff are overworked and underpaid, and patients are suffering as a result. One way to help ease the burden on staff is to ask them to work overnight shifts or on weekends. Unfortunately, many people seem to think that this is an unreasonable request. 

Hospital workers will receive their weekly shifts only a week in advance, so this can make it challenging when it comes to planning your life around work. 

7. Undervalued

If you’re a nurse working in the NHS, you may sometimes feel undervalued. The pay and conditions for nurses in the NHS are often worse than in other parts of the world, and this can lead to a feeling of being devalued by your employer and your peers. 

One of the benefits of working for the NHS is that your NHS colleagues all want the best for their patients. But this can often lead to workers feeling undervalued.