Staff at two major hospitals in Croydon have been taking more days off due to mental health issues, a recent nationwide study shows. An investigation by Legal Expert revealed that hundreds of NHS workers in Croydon have had at least one mental health-related absence in the past three years. Since 2021, Croydon Health Services NHS Trust reported 955 such absences, with a rise in the last year.

Earlier this year, funding for mental health and wellbeing hubs for NHS staff was cut. These hubs, established in 2020-21 to support staff during the pandemic, played a crucial role in aiding those facing mental health struggles, and their closure has contributed to the increase in absences.

Croydon Health Services NHS Trust runs Croydon University Hospital, one of London’s busiest A&E departments, and Purley War Memorial Hospital, as well as providing community services. In 2021/22, 335 staff took mental health-related leave, which decreased to 295 the following year. However, absences rose again in the last year to 325.

A recent survey by NHS Charities Together found that three out of four NHS staff had experienced mental health issues, often due to challenges like pay and workload. An overwhelming 96% of surveyed NHS staff agreed that service pressures were worsening. The impact of long hours, heavy workloads, and traumatic events has taken a toll on NHS staff mental health.

In a statement about its poll NHS Charities Together, said: "Far from being a seasonal issue, 'winter pressures' are felt by NHS staff all year round. A huge 96 per cent of NHS staff surveyed said they believed that pressure on NHS services is growing.

"Faced with the responsibilities of saving lives, high workload, long and unsociable hours and exposure to traumatic events, it's no surprise that many NHS staff are struggling with their mental health."

The pressures on NHS staff are so severe that each of the 350,000 nurses in England took the equivalent of one week off work last year due to stress, anxiety, and depression. Staffing shortages and long shifts continue to push workers to their physical and mental limits.

The Royal College of Nursing found that 88% of nurses feel a pay rise would greatly improve their situation. They suggested other improvements, like more flexible hours and shorter shifts, would also significantly enhance their quality of life.

In response to the recent findings, a spokesperson for Croydon Health Services NHS Trust said: "The NHS is facing significant challenges and increasing demand for its services. We know that these pressures can have an impact on the wellbeing of our staff and we are committed to supporting them, building their resilience and fostering a positive work environment.

"We have a number of health and wellbeing support services available for all staff to use, as well as offering dedicated counselling services to those who need additional support."