An HSJ and GRI report looks at the possible workforce implications of Brexit
In association with
In summer 2016, shortly after the referendum in which the nation voted by a slim majority to leave the European Union, Kelvin Cheatle began a new job. And as he took up the reins as director of workforce at Kingston Hospital Foundation Trust, the possible effects that national vote might have on NHS staffing were already weighing on his mind.
“It’s fair to say that I was immediately concerned about the impact of the referendum,” says Mr Cheatle. “And it’s fair to say it’s now been my number one issue for two years.”
The concern is understandable. EU recruitment had previously been a balm to the underlying workforce and vacancy issues in the health and social care sectors. But, post-referendum, the flow of staff from the EU into the UK has already changed.
Brexit is not the only reason. But it’s an important one and, whatever the specific future may hold on an issue which has wrought regular confusion for the past two years, it seems likely the NHS will need to mitigate the workforce impact of the UK’s exit from the European Union.
Today, HSJ is publishing – in association with GRI – a detailed report intended to help healthcare leaders understand and negotiate the possible workforce implications of Brexit.
Through conversations with analysts and an in-depth review of the data, it presents a comprehensive overview of the impact there has already been on the NHS workforce. It also features views from EU staff and NHS leaders, who give insight into how the service might reduce any continuing effect.
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Brexit and NHSv8
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