Job satisfaction overall but improvement needed in some areas
The latest HSE Your Opinion Counts staff survey has revealed some consistently strong results. Overall job satisfaction, enthusiasm for our work and a feeling of being trusted to do the job all remain high since the last survey in 2023.
Just over 25,000 people took part this year, an increase on the number of responses in 2023.
While 9 out of 10 of us feel that our job makes a difference and that we are trusted to do our job, the results also highlight areas for consideration.
High engagement levels and pride in our work
The survey results highlight staff's commitment to a high standard of patient care, as well as the personal fulfilment they get from their work.
- 3 out of 4 staff feel patients and service users are the top priority in their service
- 8 out of 10 staff feel a sense of personal fulfilment from their job
Staff’s commitment to patient care has stayed strong during the significant organisational change of the past 3 years, as we transitioned to the 6 new health regions.
Trusted and supported by line managers
The relationship between staff and their line managers remains strong. Managers performed higher in all areas than comparable public and private sector organisations.
- 7 out of 10 staff feel their line manager listens to their ideas and suggestions
- More staff feel supported by their line managers (up 2.3 points on 2023)
Communication from the organisation and senior management
While senior management scores stayed the same or increased on 2023 overall, there are still some areas that need consideration.
- Only 35% of staff feel involved in decisions from senior managers that impact their work
- Only 30% of staff feel supported to learn about and adapt to changes brought about by health regions
A focus on career development
Compared to 2023, staff are slightly less satisfied with opportunities to progress their career and use their skills. The survey results show where we can improve support for staff development and make better use of their talents.
- Only 4 out of 10 agree that there are opportunities for career progression
- More staff feel that senior managers act on staff feedback (up 3.2 points on 2023), but this area still needs improvement
Wellbeing at work
The scores for wellbeing in the workplace have stayed the same or slightly improved in most areas since 2023.
- 8 out of 10 staff feel respected by colleagues and patients
- More are satisfied with their physical work environment (up 4.5 points on 2023)
More feel the HSE tries to support a healthy lifestyle among staff (up 1.2 points on 2023). However, a similar number (just under 1 in 2) feel that their stress is work related.
Dignity at work: awareness and action
The awareness and knowledge of the HSE Dignity at Work policy has stayed the same, though more of us have completed the Dignity at Work training.
9 out of 10 staff have completed the Dignity at Work training (up 4.3 points on 2023).
Building on strengths, focusing on areas for improvement
These survey results reflect the dedication and resilience of our staff, even during a time of significant change.
As we move forward, our focus will be on maintaining strong foundations of engagement, trust and support, while taking meaningful action in areas where improvement is needed. We will prioritise clearer communication around organisational change, expand opportunities for career development and continue to invest in staff wellbeing.
Your feedback is invaluable. We are committed to using it to shape a more supportive, inclusive and empowering workplace for all.
The survey results for each health region will be shared with REOs and heads of service.
The National HR Staff Engagement team can support managers and staff to develop action plans and staff engagement activities. Email staffengagement.hr@hse.ie
As promised, there was a draw for 6 €300 One4All gift vouchers to thank everyone who participated in the survey. The happy winners will shortly be receiving their vouchers
View the results of the Your Opinion Counts Staff Survey 2025 (PDF, 6.74 MB, 93 pages)