Job satisfaction among public sector health employees: Gender, sexual identity, and ethnicity

We explore the determinants, and differences, in reported job satisfaction for women, ethnic minority and LGB+ employees among public sector health employees in the English National Health Service (NHS). A broad range of possible determinants are considered including demographic variables, job characteristics, and supportive workplace measures. Women are found to be more likely to be satisfied with their jobs, as are LGB+ employees from ethnic minorities. There is evidence that higher wage is positively associated with job satisfaction, but relative wages are not consistently related to job satisfaction. In contrast, supportive workplace practices are strongly associated with higher rates of job satisfaction. Of particular importance are effective workplace anti-bullying polices and the presence of relevant minority staff networks, especially for those identifying as LGB+. These results suggest that organisations can raise job satisfaction by further facilitating these supportive workplace practices.