2.9 The Department is aware that workforce morale will be affected by the uncertainty of a headcount reduction programme. Consequently, in recognition that clear communication is important for maintaining morale, it has developed a communication plan for civilians. The Trade Unions have, however, criticised the effectiveness of this communication and feel that the Department is conveying the message that its civilian staff are not wanted. There has been central oversight of communications to military staff with key messages conveyed through the Chain of Command. The Department itself reports that morale is 'fragile'.
2.10 The Department carries out staff surveys every year that ask questions about morale and communication. Results for the military have shown a drop in morale: in 2010, 52 per cent rated their morale as high, this declined to 46 per cent in 2011. When asked about morale in their own Service specifically, 25 per cent said morale was high but this dropped to 18 per cent by 2011.6 In 2011, the civilian staff survey showed staff engagement, which is considered an indicator of morale, to be 53 per cent; a decrease from 58 per cent from the previous year.7
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6 Ministry of Defence, Armed Forces Continuous Attitude Survey 2010 and 2011.
7 Ministry of Defence, Your Say, 2010 and 2011.