Solent NHS Trust to trial privacy pods for staff

Single person “pods” are being introduced at Solent NHS Trust to allow staff some privacy.

The Estates Locality Team has arranged for portable booths to be installed at two main sites as it continues to roll out an online desk and room booking system.

One pod has been placed at the Trust’s headquarters at Highpoint in Thornhill while a second has been introduced in Block B at St Mary’s Community Health Campus in Portsmouth.

It comes after staff said it can be difficult to make a confidential phone-call or take part in a video meeting.

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Steve Scutchings, site operations manager, said: “These pods have been introduced as a direct result of staff feedback about our new agile working arrangements and booking system.

“We hope they will come in useful when someone needs a bit of privacy, for instance for a confidential phone conversation or a piece of work requiring a brief period of intense concentration.

“Some colleagues may also like to use them for a quiet break away from the noise of the office during their busy working days.“

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He added: “As with other organisations, so many of our staff are embracing new ways of working and we are keen to hear if our teams will find these quiet spaces a useful addition to our office environment.”

The pods are free-standing and were designed by manufacturer Nook.

They are fully equipped with a seat, shelf, adjustable lighting and USB/charging points.

Both kiosks are on wheels and can be moved to alternative locations if needed.

Launched in October 2021, the innovative Matrix software allows staff to book a desk, clinic or meeting room at the touch of a button.

Already five Solent sites have been put on the system, with nine more coming online in the coming months.

If popular with staff, more pods could be introduced and become an additional bookable space option.