NHS faces young staff retention challenges as stress and pay dissatisfaction rise

A new study shows that young NHS staff, particularly those aged 21 to 30, are increasingly unhappy at work. Stress levels in this group rose by 14% over the past decade, with 52% reporting work-related stress in 2023, up from 38% in 2013. The dissatisfaction with pay also increased, with 22% of young staff unhappy about their salaries, compared to 10% a decade ago. In contrast, older staff showed only a slight increase in pay dissatisfaction. The report highlights concerns about retaining young workers in the NHS. In response to these issues, NHS officials announced a review of training for resident doctors. This comes amid ongoing discussions about the treatment of medical trainees and efforts to improve working conditions for NHS staff.