School nurse team leaders' experience and management of workplace conflict

Abstract

This study aimed to explore school nurse team leads' (SNTLs) lived experience of workplace conflict, given the negative impact conflict can have, and describes measures and strategies SNTLs used to manage conflict in the workplace. The study was carried out in a London community NHS trust. A qualitative approach using phenomenological enquiry was chosen and data were collected via one-to-one semi-structured interviews. Colaizzi's seven-stage process of analysis framework was used to analyse the data (Colaizzi, 1978: cited by Omery, 1983 ). Although SNTLs' experiences were unique to each individual, commonalities were identified and were themed. Recommendations for future practice were then identified and include staff training using recognised conflict resolution styles. Clearer organisational responsibility and support to help address the substantive, procedural psychological aspects of conflict is also needed to effectively support SNTLs to manage complex and longstanding workplace conflict.