Confidential whistleblower service launched by NHS

NHS Highland has launched an independent, confidential support service for staff wishing to raise concerns about bullying.

The move comes in the wake of the Sturrock Report, which uncovered widespread bullying within the health board.

NHS Highland’s ‘Speak Up’ Guardian Service went live on Monday August 3. It gives employees a chance to discuss concerns relating to patient care and safety, whistleblowing, bullying, harassment and work grievances.

Derek McIlroy and Julie McAndrew have been appointed full time, independent guardians for NHS Highland.

Fiona Hogg, NHS Highland’s director of human resources and organisational development, said: ‘If you have tried to speak up or don’t feel you can raise your concerns through internal routes, the ‘Speak Up’ Guardian Service provides an additional channel for colleagues to discuss concerns in confidence. We’re delighted to see the launch of this service. It highlights the NHS Highland board’s ongoing commitment to deliver the recommendations of last year’s Sturrock Report, which recommended colleagues had access to an independent, confidential route to raise concerns, in addition to existing internal processes.

‘This is another key milestone for NHS Highland to ensure systems are in place to make sure people can be heard. We recognise there is a lot more work to be done on our culture programme and the board is committed to the long-term transformation plans that are in place.’

The ‘Speak Up’ Guardian Service can be accessed by NHS Highland personnel 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 03335 775955 or contact@ theguardianservice.co.uk.