In April 2020 we completed data generation of a participatory action research project within a NHS Labour Ward. The question revolved around how to enhance individual and collective wellbeing of all colleagues, non-clinical and clinical, and the data are now being analysed. We used the principles of Appreciative Inquiry to build on practices and behaviours which energised colleagues and encouraged different staff groups to understand each other's perspectives. This stems from concern for the welfare of practitioners in the NHS and a belief that the potential for staff to improve their local situation is underestimated.
I have been a clinical midwife for all of my working life (35 years!). I do not hold any academic position but wanted to make a difference to colleague wellbeing by providing a framework for them to collectively learn ways of improving how we all feel at work.