UHNM launches 'Speaking Up Charter'

UHNM is encouraging staff to speak up about any concerns they may have at work. The trust has launched the UHNM ‘Speaking up Charter', which demonstrates a commitment to work together to support staff and ensure an open and transparent culture within the organisation.

Tracy Bullock, Chief Executive, said: “We are committed to promoting a supportive culture to ensure everyone feels safe and confident to speak up about issues that concern them and for staff to know that we will act upon their concerns. Listening to our staff and patients and acting on feedback is fundamental in a learning organisation and with the onset of Covid-19, speaking up has never been more important.

“The Charter highlights our organisation’s commitment to support anyone who wants to make their voice heard, whether it be related to patient care, quality or safety; staff experience or a suggestion for improvement. The Charter will also be signed by all the executive team as well as Divisional boards.”

Charlotte Lees, Raising Concerns and Workforce Equality Manager, said: “Speaking up is a fundamental matter of patient and staff safety in the NHS, which is why we are so determined to support our staff. We know that having effective speaking up arrangements in place can help to protect our patients and improve the experience for our staff and this is essential in creating a safe and happy environment.”

The Trust has worked with staff-side partners to develop the UHNM Speaking Up Charter, setting out clearly what can be expected - both when staff speak up and when they are spoken up about and how they will be supported.

Rob Irving, Chair of Staff Side, said: “I am delighted to be able to sign the Speaking Up Charter on behalf of staff-side. It continues the great work the trust is doing with regards to staff wellbeing, the ‘just and learning culture framework’ and generally enhancing the feel of the organisation to be an even more inclusive, progressive and fair place to work. The Charter will give staff the confidence not only to speak up when they feel something isn’t right, but to know that their employer fully supports them in doing so, and will endeavour to work with the employee to reach a fair and just outcome.”