London Ambulance Service staff report record improvements to their working lives

The latest annual NHS Staff Survey reveals significant improvements in working conditions at the London Ambulance Service (LAS) over the past year.

With a 68% response rate from over 5,000 staff, the survey indicates increased support for career development, stronger teamwork, and positive responses in 92% of questions, with improved positivity in 90 of 97 question areas especially relating to teamwork and learning and development.

Staff scores also improved in all questions relating to the NHS People Promise – the seven commitments that were launched nationally in 2021 that aim to improve the experience of working in the NHS for everyone. This includes being compassionate and inclusive, staff have a voice that counts, and staff being recognised and rewarded.

“While there is still a way to go to be the organisation we want to be, these results show we’re on the right path to making London Ambulance an outstanding place to work, where staff feel supported, rewarded and morale is improving. I’m also glad that our colleagues feel that they make a difference to the lives of Londoners every day.

“It’s vital that our workforce reflects the communities that we serve throughout the capital. And colleagues should feel that they belong and have the opportunities to fulfil a rewarding career at LAS.”

Daniel Elkeles, Chief Executive of LAS.

Addressing challenges, Elkeles emphasised the need for workforce diversity and ongoing efforts to eliminate bullying and abuse. Notably, the survey highlighted instances of staff facing bullying or abuse, with 51% reporting such incidents.

To address safety concerns, LAS invested over £3m in equipping ambulances with video cameras and supports staff reporting cases of abuse. Acknowledging the issue of sexual behavior within the organisation, Elkeles stated that it is unacceptable, and LAS is committed to addressing the concerns raised in the recent independent review by Siobhan Melia.

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