Our Trickle library contains lots of great starting points for a conversation on a topic or challenge relevant to your team within the NHS. These suggestions are provided as questions below, but we would encourage you to frame these as conversation-style statements, relevant to your team, which will encourage others to contribute in a less formal way.
It’s always a good idea to remind people that they can raise a Trickle anonymously, as well as comment anonymously. This makes it much easier for people to raise their voices and speak up about issues that matter to them.
Every team within the NHS is unique and therefore the Trickle examples below are for inspirational purposes only. Remember to put your own spin on them, keep it conversational, and speak in a way which encourages others to join the conversation.
Example
What is the most challenging thing for you or your team at the moment?’
This is a great starting point, and could be personalised to read;
‘I know others within the ward have shared some challenges they are facing in their day to day responsibilities on Trickle. I want to invite any one else currently experiencing challenges or barriers in their day to day work to speak up so we can resolve them. What are these challenges? How can we remove them?’
💡 Top Tip: The best Trickles are ones written from the perspective of the person experiencing an issue or looking to share an idea. We find these Trickles are what foster more collaborative and collective responses.
Current Challenges
"I’ve been struggling with some challenges in my day-to-day responsibilities, and I’d like to hear if others are facing similar issues."
"What barriers or obstacles are you experiencing, and how can we work together to address them?"
General Queries
"I don’t feel like I have all the tools and resources I need to do my job effectively. Is anyone else feeling the same way? What could help us work better?"
"Sometimes I find my job overwhelming. What changes do you think could make our daily work easier?"
"The kettle in the mess area on [level/ward] has stopped working. Could we get a new one?"
Changeover and Logistics
"I’ve noticed some interest in improving the mess/social areas. Would anyone like to join me in forming a committee to enhance these spaces?"
"I’m new here and need the access code for the bike shed at the main entrance. Could someone share it with me?"
"I’m still unclear on the process for [XYZ] in our location. Has this been explained well to everyone?"
Mental Health and Emotional Support
"I’m not sure if there are enough mental health resources available for us. Does anyone feel supported in managing stress at work?"
"I find it challenging to manage stress, and I’d like more support. Are there any initiatives to help with this?"
"The rest area on Floor X could really use another sofa. It would make breaks more comfortable for everyone."
Staffing Levels and Workload Management
"Lately, I’ve been feeling stretched too thin with our current staffing levels. Does anyone else feel overwhelmed?"
"I think some of our tasks could be streamlined to reduce daily pressure. Are there any processes you think could be improved?"
"Right now, I often stay 30 minutes past my shift for handover, which isn’t accounted for. Shouldn’t this be officially included in our shift schedule?"
Career Development and Training
"I’d really like to build on my skills in [XYZ] to make my job easier and more fulfilling. How can we get access to the right training or resources?"
"I’m interested in more career development and training opportunities. What support can we get to access them?"
"I recently learned about training in [XYZ area] and would like to sign up. Who can I talk to about this?"
Recognition and Appreciation
"It’s important for me to feel recognised for my work. How do others prefer to be appreciated for their efforts?"
"I often feel like my hard work goes unnoticed. Does anyone else feel this way, and how can we change it?"
Physical Health and Wellness
"I’d appreciate more support for physical wellness at work, like gym access or healthier food options. What would help others?"
"Are there any wellness initiatives that could make it easier to stay healthy and manage stress?"
"I’m new to [XYZ] and want to know more about the cycle-to-work scheme. Can someone explain how it works?"
These statements and questions express personal experiences and invite others to engage in a supportive and collaborative way.
Raising an anonymous Trickle
As for all Trickle users, you can raise a Trickle anonymously if you wish.
Why raise an anonymous Trickle as a Champion?
You may have a personal challenge that you want to surface and discuss because it is impacting on your own wellbeing and/or productivity at work
You may also have an idea or suggestion to improve the workplace that you would like to get feedback on and taken forward if everyone agrees it is a good idea
You may be aware of a general issue or challenge within a team or the organisation that you feel requires action (or at least discussion) - raise it anonymously to get your people talking!
💧Raise a Trickle and start that all-important 2-way conversation now!
You can read more about Trickles, and how to raise one,here.