Employee satisfaction at HS2 has seen a notable decline following recent developments.
- Staff approval ratings dropped from 73% to 60% in 2023/2024, a significant decrease.
- The termination of Phase 2 of HS2 by the government is a key factor in the downward trend.
- Concerns about costs and delays were cited as reasons for halting the extension to Manchester.
- HS2 remains committed to addressing employee concerns and maintaining its workforce.
The employee satisfaction at High Speed 2 (HS2), the ambitious high-speed rail project, has experienced a significant downturn in recent months. The satisfaction rate dropped from a stable 73% in previous years to 60% for the financial year 2023/2024. This decline coincided with the cancellation of Phase 2, which planned to extend the rail line north of Birmingham.
The Employee Engagement Index, a tool used to measure staff satisfaction and engagement, had previously seen highs of up to 76% in 2020/2021 but has now dropped significantly. The Cabinet Office utilises this index to gauge factors like employee pride, organisational recommendation, and motivation. The abrupt decision to cancel Phase 2, announced by then Prime Minister Rishi Sunak citing fiscal and scheduling concerns, appears to be a major influence on these figures.
The cancellation of the railway extension to Manchester was justified by the government due to increasing costs and projected timeline overruns. This decision came in the backdrop of rail travel demand surpassing pre-pandemic levels, and it caught many by surprise. According to Sunak’s statements at the Conservative Party Conference in October 2023, HS2 became an ‘example of the old consensus’, with its financial viability now questioned.
Following the announcement, HS2 recorded a 60% engagement score in its annual report, reflecting an evident drop in employee morale since previous surveys. Despite these figures, it remains within certain benchmarks, and HS2 has expressed a commitment to understanding and acting upon feedback from its employees. The organisation acknowledges the upcoming challenges but is determined to retain skilled talent and uphold a culture of safety and inclusivity.
Addressing these developments, HS2 representatives noted their efforts in reshaping the organisation to become more efficient and focused. They highlighted an ongoing commitment to their workforce, as they anticipate the arrival of the new CEO, Mark Wild, who aims to guide HS2 through its peak construction phases and further.
HS2 looks forward to its next stages, emphasising its dedication to the transformative project despite the hurdles faced. The organisation’s perseverance indicates a strategic approach to resolve internal concerns and align with governmental transitions.
HS2 navigates complex challenges post-Phase 2 cancellation, committed to workforce stability.
