Self-Rostering for Student Midwives During Covid-19: Four Perspectives

Research has demonstrated the positive effects self-rostering can have on employees’ work-life balance by allowing staff to select shifts that fit in with personal commitments. The midwifery team at Oxford Brookes University introduced self-rostering for placement shifts in an attempt to support students and practice colleagues, and enable students to continue practising during the pandemic. The roll-out of the initiative has been successful despite initial challenges. A ward manager appreciated the resulting reduction in her workload and observed students’ increased placement satisfaction. Two students described how they have benefitted from the autonomy and improved work-life balance that self-rostering provides.