Zumba Classes For NHS Staff To Cut Sickness

The NHS in England is implementing health initiatives like Zumba classes and healthy eating to reduce its sick pay budget. Facilities at Guys and St Thomas Hospital include a gym, pool, and climbing wall, which have been successful in promoting staff wellness. Despite these efforts, NHS staff sickness costs nearly 2.5 billion pounds annually, with high absence rates among nurses and ambulance staff. While incentives like free vegetables are offered, health unions argue that deeper issues like chronic underfunding need addressing. These initiatives aim to improve staff health and reduce sickness costs.

What facilities are available to NHS staff at Guys and Saint Thomas Hospital to promote health?

• A fully stocked gym and a climbing wall

• A library and a meditation room

• A cinema and a dance studio

• A spa and a sauna

What is the approximate annual cost of staff sickness to the NHS?

• 1 billion pounds

• 2.5 billion pounds

• 5 billion pounds

• 10 billion pounds

Which group of NHS staff has the highest sickness rate during winter?

• Doctors

• Ambulance staff

• Nurses and midwives

• Administrative staff

What incentive is offered to NHS staff for choosing healthy meal options?

• Free gym membership

• Discounted parking

• Free portion of vegetables or side salad

• Extra vacation days

What do health unions believe is necessary to address the root causes of NHS staff stress?

• More vacation days

• More workout sessions

• Increased funding

• Longer lunch breaks