THE organisation commissioning and paying for NHS services in south Worcestershire has been named one of the best healthcare bodies to work for in the UK.

NHS South Worcestershire Clinical Commissioning Group was named one of the top ten CCGs to work for in the UK in a Health Service Journal report published last week.

The report praised the relationship between senior management and staff and applauded a scheme providing monthly updates from chief operating officer Simon Trickett keeping employees informed on developments within the organisation as well as the chance to make suggestions.

“Twice-yearly staff away days also give staff the opportunity to meet off site and share best practice in an informal way,” it said.

“Flexible working is encouraged where possible and employees have the option to work from home.

“The commissioning group’s largely female workforce look forward to going to work – 76 per cent say they do – and most within the CCG – 65 per cent – feel there are adequate staffing levels for them to be effective within their roles.”

The report also said 81 per cent of the organisation’s 44 full-time staff frequently put in extra hours.

Mr Trickett said: “Being recognised as one of the top 10 places to work out of the several hundred NHS organisations is pleasing, particularly given that we are a relatively new organisation.

“A strong culture is important for any organisation and I see every day how hard the team works and how motivated people are to improve health services for people who live in south Worcestershire.

“It’s good to get this kind of recognition but we do know that what matters to local people is how good their local health services are and this gives us a good platform to carry on working to improve that.”

To view the whole report visit www.hsj.co.uk/bestplaces.