Our discussions at the time of developing options suggested that operating hours and shift changes would potentially be attractive to future recruits. This was based on some current staff requesting longer shifts and flexible working, feedback from some staff already working longer days on some sites and feedback from potential recruits. Seven-day working and longer days is in place in most UK hospitals in CT and MRI.
However, we have heard from some current staff that this does not reflect their views, and some people feel a change to operating hours and shift patterns may disadvantage them. We would like to reassure people that these options are not fixed but are part of a consultation process and we want to consider alternatives or adjustments that could be better in dealing with the challenges we face.
We would encourage anyone with alternative views, or insight on potential impacts, both positive and negative, to share these with us as part of the consultation.