Only 38% of health & social care staff say they have confidence and trust in senior managers, according to the latest survey.

Asked whether they felt their organisation cared about their health and wellbeing, just one in two respondents from across NHS Scotland and health and social care partnerships responded positively.

In contrast to views about employers and senior leadership, workers were more positive about their line managers.

80% agreed their line manager cared about their health and wellbeing, while 84% thought they were ‘sufficiently approachable’.

Only 22% of respondents said they were not treated with dignity and respect while at work. Seven in ten reported being treated ‘fairly and consistently’.

The results were revealed in an annual staff experience report that was complied by an independent research agency.

Commenting on the findings, health secretary Jeane Freeman paid tribute to staff, describing them as “our most important asset”:

“I am delighted that staff satisfaction remains high and staff engagement levels have increased from 2018. As we know, positive staff experience supports improved care for our patients.

“However, it is concerning to note that while the majority of staff feel their line manager cares about their health and wellbeing, this is not reflected at an organisational level.

“This must improve and I expect all senior leaders and managers across the service to consider the report’s findings carefully and take action where needed.

“There is no room for complacency and the multi-agency ministerial short-life working group I convened following the Sturrock review has been tasked with developing a framework to support cultural improvement.”

May 2019 saw the publication of a review of bullying within NHS Highland services.

The 173-page review criticised a ‘dysfunctional’ and at times ‘defensive’ style of leadership at the board, which employs more than 10,000 workers, and concluded there was widespread evidence staff were treated inappropriately.

The conclusion ‘many hundreds have experienced behaviour which is inappropriate’ at the health board prompted the government to roll out a national whistleblowing programme and promise fresh action on employee wellbeing.

In November it was revealed that independent researchers would also be brought in to investigate claims of bullying with Argyll and Bute health services as part of a follow-up.

Ms Freeman added: “Work is also underway on a new dignity at work measurement tool, designed by health and social care staff, to ensure they feel valued, listened to and respected at work".