I have been sent an anecdote by an old friend. It might only seem like a small matter but I think it illustrates a growing attitude of disrespect that professionals are experiencing from Trusts.

Apparently a Trust has sent a circular round aimed primarily at nursing staff. The tone is rather hectoring and includes the phrase “staff who work a four hour shift are reminded that they are NOT entitled to a break” The capitals are theirs.

I don’t know about you but I find this a little disturbing. Our nursing colleagues are mostly responsible professional people. We have seen them work through breaks and work on past their finish time, just as we do. This is something for which they receive no recognition, no thanks, no acknowledgement. The employers enjoy the benefit of this goodwill but ignore the fact that the balance of time owed is most definitely in favour of the nurses.

To communicate with them in this way is, I think, oppressive and insulting. It can only serve to further alienate and disillusion a dedicated workforce. It shows a lack of appreciation, and tact, and is piss poor man management.