This report provides a detailed analysis of the impact of the first wave of the Covid-19 pandemic on employment relations in the NHS across the UK. Drawing on 235 survey responses and 20 in-depth interviews with HR leaders, senior practitioners and trade union respresentatives, it explores the extent of workplace conflict during the initial phase of the pandemic, examines the longer-term implications for employment relations and assesses how NHS organisations can meet the consequent challenges.

More than 8 in 10 survey respondents agreed that Covid had a ‘detrimental impact on the health and well-being of staff’ in their organisations. In addition to staff delivering Covid care, others had to change working patterns, roles and priorities in a rapid and fundamental way.