Caring for the Carers: Why NHS Staff Wellbeing Matters Now More Than Ever

Working in the NHS is more than a job — it’s a deep-down calling to care for others, even when the going gets tough. Every day, doctors, nurses, paramedics and support staff show up with dedication and compassion. But what happens when the people we rely on to care for us aren’t being cared for in return?

The wellbeing of NHS staff is under real pressure. The 2024 NHS Staff Survey found that around 41.6% of staff reported feeling unwell as a result of work-related stress in the past year, showing how widespread stress has become for NHS teams. NHS Employers Another survey found that more than three in four NHS workers (about 76%) experienced a mental health condition in the last year, with anxiety and low mood commonly reported among staff. nhscharitiestogether.co.uk

These figures aren’t just abstract statistics — they reflect the lived experience of thousands of people who do vital work every day. When staff feel pressured, stretched too thin or emotionally overwhelmed, it doesn’t just affect them as individuals — it affects patient care, team morale and overall service delivery. High levels of stress and poor mental health contribute to sickness absence, burnout and presenteeism, all of which can ripple out to affect the quality of care delivered across the NHS. NIHR Evidence

Sadly, many NHS staff also report that their roles have had a negative impact on their mental health. In one recent survey nearly half of NHS workers (47%) said their job was harming their mental health, highlighting the ongoing strain teams face. Charity Today News

Supporting staff wellbeing in the NHS isn’t a nice-to-have — it’s essential. When staff feel supported, valued and genuinely cared for, organisations benefit from stronger morale, better retention and higher-quality care. Organisations that prioritise wellbeing help their teams to feel respected and resilient, and that matters for both people and patients.

Small acts of appreciation — a warm message, a thoughtful pause, or a moment to rest — can make a big difference in busy working lives. At Smile Box, we believe that kindness and support in the workplace go a long way. Thoughtful moments of appreciation can help spark a culture of care that reminds NHS teams they’re seen, valued and supported.

Happy, supported staff are better equipped to give exceptional care — and that’s something worth celebrating every day. If you’re part of an NHS team or work with NHS leaders, consider how you might acknowledge wellbeing in your workplace. Smile Box has curated wellbeing boxes especially for healthcare heroes — meaningful little reminders that their wellbeing matters as much as the care they give. 💛

💛 Get in touch:Please get in touch to talk through your own ideas to lift your team, or to find out how our experience can raise energy levels and create a happier and more nurtured environment. Email andy@smile-box.co.uk or simply book a Discovery Call on a date to suit you here