Meet Sylvia
A Conversation with Sylvia: Exploring Meaningful Work in the NHS
In this post, we have hear from Sylvia, a second-year PhD student at Edinburgh Napier University. Sylvia’s research is focused on exploring the perceptions of NHS non-clinical, operational staff regarding Meaningful Work and its influence on their experience in the workplace. With a wealth of experience in health policy delivery, Sylvia is delving into a crucial aspect of public sector retention that has the potential to impact the NHS and also the wider public sector.
What sparked your interest in pursuing a PhD?
After retiring from the Civil Service in 2011, Sylvia felt a growing concern about what the media reported as the state of the NHS and the challenges of retaining skilled staff. “I became increasingly concerned about the need to encourage retention of skilled staff within the NHS. I hoped doing a PhD would enlighten me as to the root causes of staff leaving, and that my study might help influence HRM policy to improve retention, not just within the NHS, but also the wider public sector,” shares Sylvia. With a background in health policy within the Scottish Government, Sylvia is particularly passionate about addressing these challenges to create lasting, meaningful change in the sector.
Research Focus: Exploring Meaningful Work in the NHS
Sylvia’s research centres on the concept of ‘Meaningful Work’ and its significance for NHS non-clinical, operational staff. Initially, the scale of the NHS posed a challenge in narrowing down the research topic, but with guidance from supervisors, Sylvia focused on understanding how this often-overlooked group of employees perceive meaningfulness in their work. “Many of these staff play vital roles in supporting front-line NHS workers, but their contributions are not always recognized” explains Sylvia. This lack of recognition Sylvia believes may be a key factor in diminishing their sense of meaningful work.
What is the aim of your research?
The primary aim of Sylvia’s research is to explore non-clinician operational delivery staff’s perceptions of meaningful work and its influence on experience of work and organisation in the public health setting in Scotland. By understanding how these staff members view their roles, Sylvia hopes to uncover insights that could enhance the sense of purpose in related work and, ultimately, improve staff retention. Through research, Sylvia aims to merge the concepts of ‘Meaningful Work’ and ‘Public Service Motivation’ to explore how this combination can boost well-being and retention, with broad implications for Human Resource Management within the public sector.
Why did you choose to pursue your PhD at Edinburgh Napier?
Having previously studied at Edinburgh Napier University, where Sylvia earned an MBA in 1998, it was an easy decision to return for her PhD. “I knew the University’s support and environment would be great for my academic journey,” says Sylvia. Additionally, after coming across a self-financing PhD topic related to NHS research at Napier Business School, Sylvia was convinced it was the right place to pursue her doctoral studies. “My career experience in both the NHS and Scottish Government Health Department could be of value.”
Best Advice Received During her PhD Journey
“One piece of advice I’ve found particularly helpful is not to strive for perfection,” shares Sylvia. “It’s an unachievable goal and only leads to frustration. Instead, I’ve learned to do my best and enjoy the experience!” Additionally, Sylvia was encouraged to take a Post-Graduate Certificate in Research during her first year, which provided essential foundational knowledge to succeed at the PhD level. “That advice proved invaluable in giving me the research foundation I needed to navigate the project.”
Unwinding Through Art and Nature
Outside of academic work, Sylvia has discovered that painting and spending time in nature are the perfect ways to unwind. “I’ve taken up art classes since retiring, first with watercolours, then acrylics, and now oils”. Sylvia shares, “I mostly paint Scottish landscapes, which helps me relax and get into a creative flow.” Sylvia also enjoys walking with Finlay, her Parson Russell Terrier, as a way to clear her mind and disconnect from her studies. Walking with Finlay gives Sylvia a chance to reflect and recharge.
In Conclusion
Sylvia’s research journey is just beginning, but her passion for improving staff retention and creating meaningful work experiences within the NHS and public sector is already evident. With a unique focus on the often-overlooked non-clinical operational staff, which Sylvia regards as “the engine room” – rather than senior management and politicians who “steer the ship” – Sylvia is poised to offer valuable insights into the role of meaningful work in enhancing motivation, well-being, and retention. Sylvia’s work promises to have a significant impact on the future of public sector HR practices.