'If you've ever watched Pearl Harbour and that nurse comes out and everything is spinning, and you just don't know where to go': A qualitative study on the unseen struggles and resilience of LTCF staff in England during the COVID-19 pandemic.

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic adversely impacted health professionals mental health and emotional wellbeing, however less research has examined the impact of the pandemic on LTCF staff. There is limited research on the emotional wellbeing of adult social care staff, particularly within the context of the government guidance and restrictions. This study aims to explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health and emotional wellbeing of LTCF staff in England. MethodsSemi-structured, qualitative interviews with 24 staff members working in eight LTCFs based in the north-west of England. Data was collected initially to explore experiences of staff members working in LTCFs during the COVID-19 pandemic, and a secondary analysis of the data focused on mental health and emotional wellbeing was conducted using thematic analysis. FindingsFive central themes were conceptualised: burnout and trauma (including initial impact on mental health and long-lasting effects on mental health); efforts to cope (passive coping strategies and active coping strategies); positive impacts on staff wellbeing (including building resilience and preserving the routine of daily life); impact on personal/home life (including protecting ones family, changing family relationships, and less work/life balance); and availability of support (including informal support and support from external services). ConclusionsThe COVID-19 pandemic had a predominantly negative impact on LTCF staffs emotional wellbeing, partly due to a lack of external support and appreciation. This impact continues to affect many LTCF staff who have not been able to access useful or appropriate support. This research highlights the importance of developing organisational resilience within such facilities and supporting LTCF staff to emotionally cope with the challenges of future pandemics.