Frontline workers plot career rethink

CONCERNS over safety at work during the COVID-19 pandemic have some healthcare workers considering their career op ons, research from digital mutual bank, Hiver, reveals.

The survey of close to 760,000 essen al workers, found threats to personal safety at work, managing mental health and the ongoing nature of the pandemic were fueling angst among those on the frontline.

The poll found that one‐in‐five healthcare workers said they were considering changing their job as a result of the pandemic, while 19% of all essen al workers ‐ including those in educa on and the emergency services - felt the same way ‐ up from 14% in May.

The research found that 55% of healthcare workers reported that they felt it was harder to fulfil their role because of the pandemic, with those in Victoria and NSW experiencing the greatest challenges, due to extended lockdowns, Hiver Chief Digital Bank Officer, Carolyn Murphy, noted.

“We know the responsibili es that essen al workers are taking on are more intense than ever because of the pandemic,” she said.

“The people who face-up to the very personal impacts of COVID-19 on a daily basis are telling us they are nearing breaking point.”

“As the pandemic goes on, if we are expec ng to con nue our reliance on essen al workers, we need to look carefully at how we can provide meaningful support in their lives.”

“We are concerned to see that nearly half (41%) of essen al workers aged 18‐34 are finding it difficult to get affordable housing close to their work, which we believe could assist in reducing stress and improving the mental wellbeing of many of our frontline workers.”

The survey also found that almost two‐thirds (65%) of essen al workers were finding it difficult to manage their mental health and wellbeing, up from 62% in May.

Adding to the stress being felt by those on the frontline, one‐in‐four health workers told researchers that they were struggling financially as a result of the pandemic.