CSP backs charter for staff who speak out

The Speaking Up charter was launched on 15 October by NHS Employers.

It outlines NHS Employers’ commitment to work together with regulators, health unions, professional associations and healthcare bodies to support staff if they raise a safety concern or issue at work.

The CSP has been joined by more than 20 major healthcare organisations, including the Health and Care Professions Council and the Royal College of Nursing, in supporting the charter’s principles.

It consists of six commitments, including a pledge to develop a positive culture, ‘promoting openness, transparency, fairness, reporting and learning as an important and integral part of providing safer patient and public care’.

Claire Sullivan, CSP assistant director of employment relations and union services, welcomed the charter – the first of its kind.

‘Good employment practices, including clear objectives, excellent training and education, and comprehensive appraisal systems, are the most important part of an organisation – ensuring it delivers safe and high quality services,’ said Ms Sullivan.

‘However, we recognise that we do not always live in a perfect world and when health workers find themselves in the difficult position of having to “whistle blow” in the public interest, they should be both protected and supported by their employer.’

To view the charter, go to the NHS Employers’ website at: www.nhsemployers.org