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 challenges does the NHS face regarding staff sickness rates?

What are the incentives provided to NHS staff for choosing healthy food options?