Recent research from Stream highlights how money worries at work can significantly impact wellbeing and performance, reducing cognitive capacity by up to 13 IQ points. For NHS staff, these challenges are particularly acute, given the demanding nature of their roles. Stream is helping to alleviate this burden, enabling staff to focus more fully on their vital work.
The situation
In the past, NHS staff filling bank shifts often had to wait up to six weeks to see those earnings, which proved discouraging, especially for those who rely on prompt pay for day-to-day expenses.
"Historically, it has been a little bit difficult encouraging them to do bank when the shift they worked, they wouldn't have got paid for for about six weeks."
The solution
One of the biggest drivers of this change has been the introduction of instant pay for shifts worked.
Now, this timely access to wages has been a significant support for the Trust's staff. It's a game-changer, especially for lower-paid staff members, giving them the financial flexibility they need. As Burgess passionately points out,
"It's the difference between buying new shoes or going on a school trip or actually putting food on the table."
The shift
The Trust has implemented changes that make it easier for internal team members to take on additional work, improving both employee satisfaction and shift coverage.
Julie Burgess highlights this shift, sharing that,
"You can go up to somebody and say, you know, we have a shift, are you able to fill it? And they're more inclined to fill it."
This willingness to help out on short notice has led to a substantial improvement in the Trust's internal shift-fill rate. By narrowing the gap between agency staff and NHS bank workers, the Trust has given agency workers a reason to consider taking on shifts directly with the Trust instead.
"You're decreasing that gap between an agency and bank, and you're giving agencies less of that ability to keep hold of their workers."
The impact
Recent research from Stream highlights how money worries at work can significantly impact wellbeing and performance, reducing cognitive capacity by up to 13 IQ points. For NHS staff, these challenges are particularly acute, given the demanding nature of their roles. Stream is helping to alleviate this burden, enabling staff to focus more fully on their vital work.
This improvement is more than just about convenience; it has made working additional shifts a viable option for many employees who might otherwise rely on external agencies for similar flexibility. In fact, some staff who previously worked through agencies have now returned to the Trust's internal staffing bank, allowing the Trust to cover shifts more reliably while providing crucial financial support to its team.
In their own words
The changes at Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust reflect a commitment not only to filling shifts but to supporting its workers in meaningful ways, ensuring they are both valued and empowered. It's a promising example of how small adjustments can make a big impact, benefiting both staff and the Trust as a whole.
"Thinking about debt and money worries, you've always got that in the back of your mind. I feel like Stream definitely helps me do a better job in work."
Stream offers a money management toolkit that helps NHS staff with budgeting, spending, and reducing stress. By building savings pots and providing flexible access to earnings, staff have reported feeling more in control of their finances and less stressed.
"With Stream, I can build my pots to accomplish my goals, and it feels like I don't have to do much to do that."
More NHS Support
Now accessible to over 800,000 NHS workers across more than half of NHS Trusts in the UK, Stream is making a tangible difference. Staff are more focused and engaged, with many reporting improved sleep and greater positivity towards their employer.
"Having Stream just takes some of that pressure away. I feel like I'm more present in work and can involve myself more."
The impact has been significant:
"I highly recommend Stream to build all your dreams."
For NHS staff, Stream is more than just a financial tool; it’s a lifeline that enables them to perform their critical roles with less stress and greater peace of mind.
