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Raising a concern is not always easy, but it’s the right thing to do. It ensures we consistently provide the best possible working environment for colleagues, and deliver high quality, safe patient care.
This is why we made speaking up a Trust breakthrough objective in April 2023 as part of the refresh of Patient First, highlighting our commitment to empowering others to speak up, and addressing any concern raised.
Your voice counts. If you see something, say something…
Some examples of instances where you should speak up are:
- unsafe patient care
- bullying or a bullying culture
- unsafe working conditions
- lack of, or poor, response to a reported patient safety incident
- suspicions of fraud
If you have a concern, the best place to start is by reporting it to your line manager.
But if that is not effective, or you feel uncomfortable about doing so, there are other options – see our handy route map to help you find the right pathway.
The Guardian Service
There is another avenue for you to take, the Trust has adopted a new independent 24/7 listening service called ‘The Guardian Service’, a dedicated UHSussex guardian (Trish Marks) is available to provide impartial and confidential support, with matters relating to patient care and safety, whistleblowing, bullying and harassment, and work grievances. Trish will be visiting sites regularly so you can speak to her in-person, contact her on email or via the dedicated freephone number available 24/7.
Useful information
- Watch a short video to learn more about The Guardian Service.
- Download the UHSussex Guardian contact card for printing/display
- Download a speaking up reflective guide
- Download a “your voice counts poster” for printing/display
- View our staff handbook for full details on our policy, who you can speak to and how we can support you.
- Domestic violence and sexual assault support.
How to speak up and who to see
If you have a concern about your role, health or patient safety our route map will help you find the right pathway.
Leaders toolkits
Access our leaders toolkit page for guidance and further support.