NHS England has published its 2023/24 priorities and operational planning guidance.
On the key issues of employee retention it has little to offer: "Improve retention and staff attendance through a systematic focus on all elements of the NHS People Promise".
And what does the NHS People Promise say?
"We are recognised and appreciated – whether a simple thank you for our day-to-day work, or formal recognition for our dedication, such as every decade of service to the NHS.
We have a fair salary, competitive pension, and an attractive package of extended benefits, whatever our role.
We have more choices. We can buy and sell unused holiday and arrange unpaid leave, if this is what we’d prefer. We also enjoy enhanced maternity and shared parental leave
We have access to employee assistance programmes for advice and support on issues like caring responsibilities and financial wellbeing."
There are targets for reducing bed occupancy and A&E waiting times, but no discussion of the level of demand which is causing difficulties.
The document s available below.