STRESSED nurses at GWH have joined a waiting list for health checks.

Bosses at the flagship hospital fear staff may be too busy thinking of others to take care of their own health.

So all workers from porters to top consultants are now being offered tailor-made sessions in work-life balance.

Occupational health therapists have been running the classes since early January.

And they say demand is so high that they have now been forced to draw up a waiting list.

"It's taken us by surprise," admitted Kate Kyne, department manager.

"We expected a lot of people but demand has been exceptionally high.

"Nurses and other members of staff work hard to look after others. Now we want to look after them."

Amanda Pollitt, a nurse advisor, said the classes are crucial if staff are to perform on the wards to the best of their ability.

"Some of the consultants may think that they know it all but they don't," she said.

"You can't be an expert in everything. Most people know what they should be doing in terms of their health but they're not putting it into practice.

"Working in the NHS is both challenging and demanding whether you're a porter or a surgeon.

"The hospital has a vested interest in this and it seems a very proactive way of getting staff healthier."

Mrs Pollitt said shift work common in the NHS takes its toll on many.

But she said problems can be tackled if a correct routine is followed.

"I have worked with a lot of shift workers and it's true that eating and exercising can be difficult this is not confined to nurses," she said.

As well as occupational health checks, staff are also offered blood pressure, cholesterol and urine checks.

Chris Birdsall, spokesman for Swindon and Marlborough NHS Trust, welcomed the sessions.

He said: "These sessions are ideal for busy NHS workers who would struggle to find the time to see their GP.

"The waiting lists prove just how popular they are. Working in a busy hospital is stressful. You turn up for work in the morning and you never know what you are going to be faced with.

"Our staff cope very well with the pressure but that's no reason not to support them."

Kevin Shoesmith