All individuals within the NHS should be supported to speak up, raise concerns and offer solutions that improve the culture within the workplace and support high levels of patient safety.
At NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, we want everyone working in primary care to feel safe, supported, and confident to speak up about concerns – whether they relate to patient safety, workplace wellbeing, or service delivery.
When a concern is raised, we want colleagues to feel confident that they will be listened to, supported, and appropriate action taken.
What Can Colleagues Speak Up About?
You can speak up about anything that gets in the way of doing a good job, including (but not limited to):
- Unsafe patient care or working conditions
- Unsafe working conditions
- Inadequate training or induction arrangements
- Poor response to reported safety concerns or incidents
- Suspicions of fraud (can also be reported to the National NHS Fraud and Corruption Reporting line via 0800 028 40 60 or https://cfa.nhs.uk/reportfraud)
- Sexual safety concerns or incidents
- Bullying or harassment
- A culture of unfairness or discrimination
- Inappropriate attitudes or behaviours
Speaking Up Routes
We understand speaking up can feel daunting. That’s why it is important to highlight that there are a range of different speaking up routes available to allow you to choose what feels right for you in your individual circumstances:
- Speak up to your line manager, practice manager or senior colleague/manger
- HR or Workforce Team for employment related matters
- Trade Union Representative
- Speak Up to the Freedom to Speak Up Guardian within your own organisation (if in place)
- Contact the NHS Hampshire & Isle of Wight Freedom to Speak Up Guardian for confidential and impartial support. Colleagues can raise concerns individually or as a group if preferred
- External bodies including the Care Quality Commission and NHS England
- Report externally to professional regulators if internal routes are not suitable or do not feel safe
To find out more or to raise a Freedom To Speak Up call please contact
NHS England Freedom to Speak Up Team
Colleagues can contact the team via their confidential inbox: england.speakup1@nhs.net
Our Commitment
In line with our duty of candour, NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight senior leaders and the Board are committed to fostering an open, honest, and just culture where speaking up is welcomed, appreciated and acted upon. Whatever route you choose to speak up, you will have access to the support you need.