On 20 May it is International HR Day. In the world of awareness days this is a relatively new one, established in 2019 by European Association of People Management as a way to recognise and publicise HR, and the significant contribution HR professionals make in organisations on a national and international scale. Recently there has been an increased understanding of and appreciation for HR teams, after all they are the people who look after the people, and in all organisations the people are their greatest assets. This is particularly true of the health and care sector.
At Chamberlain Dunn we’ve long been aware of the professionalism, commitment and dedication of workforce professionals working in the NHS and care sector. Through our work with HPMA (Healthcare People Management Association) the membership organisation for HR, OD and workforce professionals working in the NHS we are privileged to meet the people supporting the people and help promote the work that they do.
This is a profession that has often been described as `back office’ but they are anything but. It’s a profession that is constantly striving to find ways to improve the working lives of people; seeking to attract new talent, and hold on to existing talent, in the demanding world of health and care. No mean feat.
We’ve discovered this mainly through the HPMA Excellence in People Awards, an awards programme we have organised for over 20 years. As with all of the awards programmes we organise we are always struck by the passion behind the projects, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to ultimately improving patient care. Everyone working in health and social care deserves their moment in the spotlight, and in May alone there will be celebrations for midwives, biomedical scientists and nurses. And quite rightly so. But please also spare a moment to reflect on and celebrate the work of those supporting these professionals. They’re certainly not back office.
For more information on International HR Day visit www.eapm.org/ihrd/