Staff turnover in the NHS: a preliminary economic analysis

Statistical analysis presented in Section 5 suggests that it may be possible to relate turnover rates to local labour market conditions and management and administrative costs per leaver may be of the order of £240-£381 per starter.

Abstract

Drawing on evidence collected from 8 Regional Health Authorities and 47 District Health Authorities, this pilot study explores the level, causes and costs of staff turnover in the NHS. It finds: 1. Previous research has ignored turnover costs and neglected staff groups other than nurses. 2. One in four non-medical employees leave their job each year. 3. A lower proportion of non-medical staff who leave – 8 to 15% - stay within the NHS than is sometimes thought. 4. Statistical analysis presented in Section 5 suggests that it may be possible to relate turnover rates to local labour market conditions. 5. Management and administrative costs per leaver may be of the order of £240-£381 per starter, or £277, 000-£440, 000 in a typical district with 1, 155 non-medical leavers and starters per annum.