Generational divides stark as NHS Staff Survey shows worrying signs

Responding to the 2025 Staff Survey published today by NHS England, Nuffield Trust Fellow Lucina Rolewicz said:

“Most indicators are stable, but this staff survey shows some worrying signs, with a slight rise in reported burnout, less confidence that organisations act when concerns are raised, and increasing signs of abuse from patients towards ambulance staff. It also shows once again the troubling generation gap we have warned about.

“The 21-30 age group are much more likely to feel burnt out, with 41% saying they often or always felt this way, compared to just 25% of those aged 51-65. This group was more likely to report becoming unwell as a result of work-related stress – nearly half said this had happened to them in the last year. They are the least satisfied with pay, with just 24% satisfied compared to 36% of those aged 51-65.

“A third of staff aged 21-30 say they “often” think about leaving their organisation. We know that this is not just talk – it is a reality. Around one in five new nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists and radiographers leave NHS hospital and community trusts within two years. If the NHS wants to back up its commitment to develop enough staff trained within the UK for a stable workforce, this needs to change. Other countries use policies such as student loans forgiveness to reward staff for sticking around in public service, and we should be learning from them.”