ALT Ulster University GOOD PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS Employers are recommended to offer more flexibility around working hours and location, including working from home if possible Safe staffing levels (including workload weighting models) should be adhered to or developed if not already present Training in relation to redeployment and skill acquisition would be useful when staff need to perform multiple or new roles in usual practice periods AND in preparation for future crises or pandemics Social support, and connection with colleagues and managers should be nurtured and part of organizational policy and practice Emplovers should support staff to take of breaks and holidays Front line managers need support in order to support individuals and teams Refocus on staff wellbeing culture and climate - early intervention and prevention (like good social work)

ALT Ulster University Key findings: Intention to Leave Occupation • Over a third of social workers UK-wide (36.2%) also had considered changing their occupation with the highest proportion of these being from England (44.2%), followed closely by Northern Ireland (36.2%), Scotland (32.4%), and Wales (26.7%). • Throughout the six Phases of study, social workers indicated that manager support (39.5%), a pay increase (37.8%) well-being support (32.1%), and safer working conditions (28.1%), would change their minds about wanting to leave their employer or current occupation.

ALT Title slide HSC Quality of working life & coping during Covid All Phase SW presentation -m Ulster University Health and social care workers' quality of working life and coping during COVID-19: Impact on Staff and Service Users with Good Practice Recommendations for a sustainable workforce Phase 6 Results Nov-Jan 2023 Dr Paula McFadden Dr Patricia Gillen Dr John Moriarty Dr John Mallett Dr Heike Schroder Dr Jermaine Ravalier Professor Jill Manthorpe Dr Denise Currie Ms Patricia Nicholl Ms Susan McGrory Dr Ruth Neill Dr Justin MacLochlainn Dr Rachel Naylor