Listener question: I work for the NHS. So we are basically asked, on a continual basis, to ‘ fit a quart into a pint pot’ . So that is a ‘form’ problem, with a solution- another pint pot. But that is not on offer, and it is not an option to say it’s not possible and walk away, because the patients will suffer. So not sure how I can help colleagues , it looks intrinsically stressful, not just ‘ our thinking’ . As one Dr tweeted recently, it shouldn’t be the case that it feels like a luxury to be able to have a wee on a 12 hour shift. 

We have a range of health and well-being initiatives, but to me it feels a bit insulting when basic needs are not met, so would be grateful for any insights. I can see that not everyone finds it equally stressful, for some it’s just ‘ working in the nhs’ , but ……