Some staff say they only have time to grab unhealthy snacks like crisps or chocolate during busy shifts.
Overstretching NHS workers are skipping lunch and sacrificing breaks just to ensure patients get the care they need.
According to a UNISON survey published today, more than half (53%) of NHS workers say they cannot take regular breaks, and almost one in six (16%) only have time to grab snacks like crisps or chocolate during busy shifts.
Most concerningly, a small number (7%) of staff say they never take a break, one in seven (15%) only rarely, and three in ten (31%) only do sometimes.
UNISON says this non-stop work culture has been triggered by intolerable pressures on the NHS caused in part by staff shortages and the pandemic-related treatment backlog.
NHS workers who could take a break said they often struggle to find somewhere quiet to unwind.
A ‘no breaks, no food’ culture.
The survey also found that the food available in hospitals was unhealthy and of poor quality.
Head of health for the union, Sara Gorton said: “Working long shifts with few or no breaks and little or no food is never acceptable. But the situation is worse for staff when demand on health services is so high.
“Nurses, healthcare assistants and other NHS employees need proper spaces to unwind, not cupboards or corridors. Healthy food should also be available to sustain them during the long hours they work.
“Otherwise, workers will end up quitting for jobs that allow healthier, less stressful lifestyles. Everything possible must be done to end this ‘no breaks, no food’ culture. Staff can then focus on what they do best – providing quality care for patients.”
A total of 8,573 health workers in hospitals (83%) and mental health trusts (17%) completed the survey between Thursday 14 April and Thursday 21 April 2022.
