Poor morale among the reasons East Ayrshire Council staff quit

A report examining staff departures from East Ayrshire Council has outlined concerns about workplace conditions, staff morale, and employees feeling undervalued.

Retirement and career progression emerged as the top reasons for leaving, but other issues highlighted include dissatisfaction with the organisation and unmanageable workloads.

During a meeting held on 21st October, the council's cabinet reviewed the findings, which reveal that 18 per cent of departing staff cited their working environment as a reason for leaving, while 16 per cent expressed overall dissatisfaction.

Additionally, 33 per cent of respondents reported their tasks as unmanageable, and 51 per cent felt there were insufficient opportunities for growth.

'Hard hitting' report

Council leader, Councillor Douglas Reid, acknowledged the hard-hitting nature of the report, calling for action to address low morale and ensure staff feel valued.

He noted that local government bodies across Scotland face similar challenges and emphasised the importance of addressing these issues in East Ayrshire.

The meeting also addressed concerns about whether current employees have sufficient growth opportunities and how the council plans to respond to the findings of exit interviews.

The council is implementing a workforce survey to gather more detailed insights from current employees and reviewing flexible working arrangements as part of its efforts to improve workplace conditions.

Younger employees, particularly apprentices and those early in their careers, were also a focus, as councillors discussed whether this group faces specific barriers to progression.

Plans to update exit interview policies will return to elected members for further consideration.

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