`We love working at GWH' say staff

From the archive, first published Saturday 26th Nov 2005.

SWINDON'S flagship hospital is officially a happy place to work, according to a national magazine. Nursing Times asked readers to rank organisations according to job satisfaction.

And they rated Swindon and Marlborough NHS Trust ­ the body that runs the hospital ­ 33rd in the country for job satisfaction.

Thousands of healthcare providers from public, voluntary and independent sectors took part.

Bosses at GWH today said they were delighted and immediately praised hardworking staff.

Chris Osman, the associate director of human resources, said: "It is a real boost to our trust and shows that all the hard work that has gone into making staff feel a part of our organisation has paid off.

"We have always believed this is a great place for nurses to work ­ now we have had that confirmed by the nurses themselves.

"We feel this is a real achievement and we are pleased that staff have responded to the survey in a such a positive way."

Nursing Times praised the trust's commitment to staff retention.

Traditionally, the NHS has found it difficult to keep nurses because of the lure of private hospitals.

The Swindon entry ­ included in a special supplement celebrating the Top 100 ­ reads: "There is a keen sense of pride in recruitment and retention at this trust which has a waiting list for junior posts, a high rate of returners and low rates of staff turnover.

"Respondents describe a friendly, supportive working environment with an open culture and opportunities for flexible working."

Nurse Dawn Oddie, who recently switched from North Middlesex University Hospital in north London, explained why she rates GWH.

She said: "Great Western Hospital has great facilities and layout with nice surroundings.

"The people are very friendly, approachable and helpful."

Nursing Times editor Rachel Downey said: "The Top 100 is great news for employers and nurses ­ our research shows many can clearly demonstrate excellent employment practices.

"And now, for the first time, nurses have a scale which they can use to evaluate existing or future employers."

Mrs Osman and her colleague, senior nurse Joanne Smith, attended a presentation ceremony in London where they received the certificate to mark the trust's achievement.

The survey ­ in the form of questionnaires ­ was carried out by Stingray Research, a member of the Market Research Society.

Kevin Shoesmith

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