A Double-Edged Sword: Rewards and Risks for the UK’s Flexible Healthcare Workers

Recent findings from Acacium Group reveal significant insights into the lives of flexible health and social care workers in the UK. Despite the intrinsic benefits of flexible working, the study shows that about 18% of these professionals are considering leaving the sector within the next two years. This statistic emerges from responses gathered from 1,064 participants, highlighting the substantial pressures and challenges faced by these workers.

Many of these individuals, who typically find employment through private agencies, report concerns regarding their working conditions and lack of support from management. A considerable 24% of respondents feel overstretched by their duties, exacerbated by inadequate access to necessary tools and resources. Alarmingly, 27% of these workers express dissatisfaction with their ability to access patient records, whilst 17% are concerned about insufficient protective equipment.

Despite these challenges, there remains a strong sentiment of job satisfaction among the majority. About 83% of the surveyed workers feel positive about their overall working environment, with 65% indicating a high likelihood of continuing in their roles for the next two years. The predominant allure of flexible working remains its inherent flexibility, with 34% identifying it as their primary motivation. Additionally, 9% value the improved work-life balance it offers, and 8% appreciate the accommodation it provides for family commitments.

Mike Barnard, CEO of Acacium Group, underlines the indispensable role of flexible workers within the health and social care system. He points out that these individuals are crucial not only as supplementary staff but also as key components of the permanent workforce, many of whom choose to undertake flexible roles. This flexibility is crucial for maintaining the continuity and quality of care across all regions of the UK, encompassing the 42 English Integrated Care Boards, Scottish and Welsh Health Boards, and various independent providers.

The report paints a picture of a workforce navigating the dualities of flexibility and stability, underscoring the vital need for better support systems to retain these essential workers in the healthcare sector. As the landscape of health and social care evolves, the contributions of flexible workers will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of the UK’s healthcare infrastructure.