Staff experiences of working in the NHS: A systematic review of staff experiences of Schwartz Rounds in healthcare settings in the UK and a reflexive thematic analysis exploring the reasons and experiences of Clinical Psychologists leaving the NHS and working privately

Increasing numbers of staff sickness in the NHS have resulted in a focus on staff wellbeing interventions. One proposed intervention is ‘Schwartz Rounds’ (SRs), which have been implemented in NHS Trusts across the UK. Little is known about staff experiences of this intervention. The current review aims to build a detailed understanding of experiences of SRs by healthcare staff in the UK to help further shape and improve the support offered to staff. A systematic search of SR literature identified ten peer-reviewed studies published between 2017-2024. These were critically appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Qualitative data was thematically synthesised, and quantitative data was described narratively. Quantitative data showed positive response to SRs. Thematic synthesis produced descriptive themes: ‘attention to safety is key’; ‘resonance, connection and time to recover’; and ‘relational and practical challenges’. Findings suggest that care needs to be taken to create safety in each session to ensure staff feel comfortable. Ideas to address this included consideration of liminal spaces and utilising skills of Clinical Psychologists to increase psychological safety in sessions. Furthermore, barriers like access to SRs across the organisation are considered. Further research routes are also explored.