Colleagues at East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust (ELHT) overwhelmingly feel valued by their team, make a difference to patients and have opportunities to improve themselves, according to the results of a survey.

The results of the latest NHS staff survey have now been published and provide a blueprint for the Trust’s improvement over the next 12 months in areas ranging from patient care to leadership and how colleagues are supported.

The staff survey is carried out across thousands of NHS organisations around the country.

ELHT scored above the national average in every area when compared to other acute and community trusts.

Within the survey report, figures show that 82.5 per cent of colleagues reported that they enjoyed working with their colleagues, while 87.9 per cent felt that their role made a difference to patients.

The survey also revealed that colleagues feel supported in their work and health and wellbeing.

Other key statistics included:

• 76.4 per cent said the organisation respects individual differences

• 73.3 per cent were able to make suggestions to improve the work of their team

• 70.5 per cent said they have opportunities to improve their knowledge and skills

• 71.2 per cent said colleagues are understanding and kind to them.

There were particular improvements related to the themes of “safe and healthy” and “always learning”, which are areas the Trust has been working hard to improve over the last year.

Chief Executive of ELHT, Martin Hodgson, said: “Our colleagues are the heart of our organisation and their feedback is essential to help us improve.

"There are some really positive results in the survey and I’m very proud to lead such a fantastic organisation.

"Overall, these results show that East Lancashire Hospitals Trust is a great place to work.

“The survey paints a picture of colleagues who enjoy their work and feel that they make a difference to the lives of our patients.

“We pride ourselves on being a learning organisation that’s committed to continually improving, so we will be inviting every colleague across the Trust to help us identify areas for improvement and create an action plan through a series of 'big conversations'.

"By working together we will create an even more positive work environment, delivering safe, personal and effective care to our communities.

“If anyone is thinking about a career in healthcare, do take a look at the vacancies on our website and come and join our ELHT family.”

To view vacancies at the Trust, visit the ELHT website.