BS4S43 - HRM and Industrial Relations 01 Sep 2024 - 31 Aug 2030 | Version 0

Associated Module Information

Module Code: BS4S43
Module Title: HRM and Industrial Relations
Faculty: Faculty of Business and Creative Industries
Faculty Group: Professional Development
Faculty Sub Group: Professional Development
Module Leader: Karl Greenhough
Module Team: Kevin Brown, Kevin Ellis-Brush
First Intended Intake: SEP 2024 Final Year of Intake: 2029
Date Closed:
Credit Value: 20 Credit Level: 7
Language: English
Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: 0
Equivalent Module:
HECOS codes: 100085 - human resource management
HECOS Code Weighting: 100

Document Version Information

Version 0
Valid From 01 Sep 2024
Valid To 31 Aug 2030

Module Aims

This module is designed to provide clinicians with an in-depth understanding of Human Resource Management (HRM) and Industrial Relations within the healthcare context, focusing on the UK National Health Service (NHS). It aims to equip learners with the skills to manage and enhance employee relations, understand the dynamic nature of the employment relationship, and apply HRM strategies effectively in healthcare settings.

Content Summary

The content of the module will encompass a range of critical topics that underpin the efficient management of human resources and maintain robust employee relations within healthcare settings. Here is a breakdown of the key topics to be covered:

•\tStrategic HRM:

o\tAligning HRM strategies with overall NHS strategic objectives.

o\tThe role of HRM in supporting the delivery of patient-centred care.

o\tStrategic workforce planning to meet the future demands of healthcare.

•\tRole of the State:

o\tThe state's influence on employment relations within the NHS.

o\tUnderstanding the regulatory framework governing employment.

o\tThe impact of state legislation on HRM practices.

•\tRole of Trade Unions:

o\tThe function and influence of trade unions in the healthcare sector.

o\tTrade unions' impact on employment terms, conditions, and practices.

•\tLine Management:

o\tPrinciples of line management.

o\tThe role of clinicians as managers and how they can support HR functions.

•\tProblems at Work:

o\tCommon workplace issues faced by healthcare professionals.

o\tStrategies for addressing problems such as staff shortages, burnout, and work-life balance.

o\tDeveloping supportive policies to mitigate workplace issues.

•\tManaging Conflict:

o\tSources of conflict.

o\tTechniques and strategies for conflict resolution.

•\tDiscipline and Grievance:

o\tUnderstanding disciplinary processes.

o\tHandling grievances: from initial complaint to resolution.

o\tEnsuring procedural fairness and legal compliance in disciplinary actions.

•\tAlternative Dispute Resolution (ADR):

o\tOverview of ADR mechanisms.

o\tDetermining when and how to use ADR methods.

o\tAdvantages and limitations of ADR in healthcare settings.

•\tMediation:

o\tThe mediation process within the context of the NHS.

o\tRoles and responsibilities of mediators.

Each topic will be explored through the lens of the NHS, considering the unique environment in which clinical staff operate. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications, the module aims to enhance the HRM competencies of clinicians, enabling them to lead effectively and foster a harmonious work environment conducive to high-quality patient care.

You might consider the following statement to communicate that the content may be subject to change:

1. Please note that while we endeavour to adhere to the outlined syllabus, the content of this module may be updated to reflect the latest developments in the field and to ensure the highest quality of learning experience. We reserve the right to make amendments to the module content and reading list to keep the course relevant, up-to-date, and in line with current academic and industry standards

Learning and Teaching Methods

Activity Type Hours
Lecture 10
Tutorials 30
Independent Study 130
Formative Assessment - Independent 10
Groupwork 10
Problem/Challenge based learning 10
Total Hours Selected 200

Learning Outcomes

# Learning Outcome
LO1 Critically evaluate the strategic role of HRM and employment relations within healthcare organisations, considering the complex legal, social, economic, and psychological aspects of the employment relationship in the context of the Health Care Sector.
LO2 Synthesise professional HRM and Industrial Relations practices into coherent strategies to enhance organisational performance, staff engagement, and high-quality patient care.

Module Requisites

N/A

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Category Assessment Type Description Duration Word Count Weight (%) Best of? Pass Mark
Asynchronous Assessment Report 1 A written report that draws on knowledge and material from the module and a predetermined case study or article(s) 0 4000 100 No 40

Assessment Matrix

Assessment Type Learning Outcomes
LO1 LO2
Report 1

Reading List

Boxall and Purcell, (2022) Strategy and Human Resource Management, Palgrave Macmillan

Bennett et al (2020) Managing Employment Relations, Kogan Page. (a new version of this text is anticipated to be available by December 2024)