Motion 75
Workplace Rest Spaces
“That this Congress notes that the HSE advise that all workplaces should provide a suitable seated area for breaks that is clean, where food will not be contaminated, and with washing facilities nearby.
“HSE reminds employers that they must provide pregnant and breastfeeding workers a place to rest, that must include privacy to express milk and a suitable area to store it. These workers should be able to lie down during their breaks if required.
“NHS Midwives receive a 30-minute unpaid break during their shift. HSE have clear guidance around fatigue, yet staff do not have access to a break space that allows them to sleep, switch off, and rest. This space needs to be located close to their place of work so that they can benefit from the entire rest period, not spend it getting to a rest space. This keeps care safe.
“Break spaces need to meet the varying needs of all staff using them, areas must be provided that meet the needs of all. The RCM 2023 Neurodivergent toolkit calls for quiet spaces for workers to decompress; there is growing recognition of the number of workers whose needs are not being met.
“Staff need to be able to switch off from their work in comfort, with access to food day or night, without distraction in an environment where they feel valued.
“This has been in place for other professions in the workplace since 2001.
“Congress calls on the General Council to:
- lobby Scottish Government for equitable rest spaces for all workforce removing the hierarchy of comfort; and
- support the RCM campaign for modern, fit for purpose rest spaces including safe, private facilities for pregnant and breastfeeding workers, neurodivergent workers and sleep spaces to genuinely support staff wellbeing and keep care safe.”
Mover: Royal College of Midwives (RCM)
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