UHNM’s deputy chief nurse completes PhD research on patient safety

University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust’s (UHNM) deputy chief nurse has been awarded a professional doctorate from London South Bank University.

Dr Fiona Hibbert’s research examined the impact of safety huddles, revealing how they enhance patient safety and staff wellbeing by creating a culture where risks are identified early and staff feel empowered to speak up.

In her study, Dr Hibberts, who is also UHNM’s chief nursing information officer, observed huddles and conducted interviews not only in the NHS but drew insights from other high-pressure environments including sports coaching and aviation. 
 
Dr Hibberts said: "Completing my doctorate has been an incredible journey and a huge personal achievement. My PhD focuses on patient safety, exploring safety huddles in an acute hospital, how they work and what they do and the impact they have on patient care and staff wellbeing. 

“I started the research before covid and it continued throughout. Whilst huddles had been linked to improved safety metrics and communication, I wanted to understand why and how they really made a difference. I spoke with rugby and football coaches about scrums, airline pilots about safety briefings, and hospital staff which shaped my decision to study huddles in depth.

“This research has taught me so much, not just about huddles, but about persistence, resilience and the power of curiosity. What excites me most is seeing it make a real difference in practice. Safety huddles give staff a safe space to speak up, spot risks early and improve patient care.

“On a personal level, it’s been rewarding for my family too, showing my children that focus and determination can lead to meaningful achievements even in the busiest times."

UHNM is now applying these findings through its Safety Stop project designed to further enhance care quality and safety across the Trust.