NHS staff can raise concerns at Speak Up Day
NHS staff have been urged to speak out about any concerns they have at work.
Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, which runs Sandwell General and Birmingham City hospitals, held a Speak Up Day on Wednesday. (9th)
The event was part of an ongoing campaign to encourage staff to voice any concerns they may have about safety at work, either relating to staff or patients.
Bosses said they want staff to feel assured they can raise any workplace issues they have.
Lesley Writtle, non-executive director at the trust, who is the trust board’s Freedom to Speak Up lead, said: “We have a number of Freedom to Speak Up guardians who staff can approach and speak to about any concerns they may have.
“They come from all areas across the trust, representing both clinical and non-clinical areas. By having a number of people in these positions, we believe it makes it easier for staff to raise concerns and to be aware that this is something they are able to do.
“Speak Up Day at the trust is very important as it highlights how serious we are about investigating and correcting bad practice if we identify it.
“Several of the trust’s senior leaders have made themselves available on the day for people to have confidential conversations with about concerns. They are able to talk to them at any time, but on Speak Up Day there is dedicated time available to do this.
“There are a number of ways for people to raise concerns and all of these are highlighted on Speak Up Day. Staff can talk to guardians, trade union representatives, managers, and Trust specialists.
“Every concern raised will be looked into to ensure we react as quickly as possible to improve our service to patients.”
