The impact of moving to a 12h shift pattern on employee wellbeing: A qualitative study in an acute mental health setting.

Background: Against a backdrop of increasing demand for mental health services, and difficulties in recruitment and retention of mental health staff, employers may consider implementation of 12 h shifts to reduce wage costs. Mixed evidence regarding the impact of 12 h shifts may arise because research is conducted in divergent contexts. Much existing research is cross sectional in design and evaluates impact during the honeymoon phase of implementation.

The impact of extending nurse working hours on staff sickness absence: Evidence from a large mental health hospital in England.

Background: A pressing international concern is the issue of mental health workforce capacity, which is also of concern in England where staff attrition rates are significantly higher than in physical health services. Increasing demand for mental health services has led to severe financial pressures resulting in staff shortages, increased workloads, and work-related stress, with health care providers testing new models of care to reduce cost. Previous evidence suggests shift work can negatively affect health and wellbeing (increased accidents, fatigue, absenteeism) but can be perceived as beneficial by both employers and employees (fewer handovers, less overtime, cost savings).