Teamwork, Staff Retention and Looking After Staff Wellbeing within the Endoscopy Units across Ysbyty Ystrad Fawr, Nevill Hall, Royal Gwent and the Grange Hospital
Aneurin Bevan University Health Board
Introduction:
The Endoscopy Units across Aneurin Bevan University Health Board (ABUHB) – including Ysbyty Ystrad Fawr, Nevill Hall, Royal Gwent, and The Grange Hospital – recognised the urgent need to improve staff morale, reduce burnout, and retain experienced staff. The aim was to reduce staff turnover by 20% and increase staff satisfaction by 15% within a year.
Methods:
The initiative adopted a mixed-methods approach including surveys, semi-structured interviews, and retrospective analysis of HR data spanning 5–10 years. Interventions included regular wellbeing check-ins, an open-door policy, and an Employee of the Month scheme. Staff were involved in decision-making, with improved autonomy and work-life balance. Data was analysed thematically using Braun and Clarke’s framework, and quantitative tools like WEMWBS and the Maslach Burnout Inventory.
Outcomes:
Staff sickness days dropped from 7.3 to 4.2 on average, while turnover fell by 22%. Surveys reported improved morale, reduced burnout, and better team cohesion. Staff felt more valued, supported, and engaged. Patient care also improved, with higher throughput and more consistent service delivery.
Learnings:
Key lessons included the importance of involving staff early, embedding wellbeing into daily operations, and using both qualitative and quantitative metrics to track impact. Wellbeing efforts must be systemic and continuous to sustain gains. Having dedicated wellbeing leads and refining baseline measures would enhance future evaluations.
What Next?
The team plans to develop a sustainable wellbeing framework, appoint wellbeing champions, introduce digital wellbeing tools, and link staff wellbeing improvements to patient experience. Continued evaluation will guide future adaptations. The project has transformed wellbeing from a one-off effort into an embedded culture of care and psychological safety, with long-term benefits for staff and patients alike.
