Realist evaluation of factors affecting the retention of the mental health workforce: building a realist programme theory.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

The shortage of mental healthcare workforce is a global problem. Mental health services have higher staff turnover and more vacancies than the health sector average. In this study, we developed, tested and refined an initial programme theory (IPT) to offer insight into mechanisms that affect staff retention in UK mental health provider organisations.

Design

A realist evaluation to identify the contexts and mechanisms that impacted on workforce retention. We developed an IPT through a realist review and stakeholder engagement.

Setting

We then tested the IPT through a realist evaluation in six case studies in selected National Health Service (NHS) mental health Trusts in England. Sites were selected to give variation in retention rates; quality ratings were aw

SUBMITTER: Wood E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12406895 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature