Freedom to Speak Up is a national campaign that aims to ensure all NHS staff are free to speak up about patient safety, patient experience and any concerns about their personal working environment or the quality of our services.
In support of the campaign, Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust have Freedom to Speak Up Guardians to help develop a culture of openness where all staff, regardless of position, can talk about any concerns they have.
Raising any concern at an early stage will often avoid escalation. Our Guardians will offer you guidance and signposting to the most appropriate source of support. They are here to listen to you in confidence and are committed to providing a safe space.
If you relate to the following, we can help:
Currently dealing with bullying/harassment
- Raised concerns in the past and were not satisfied with the actions taken
- Concerned about behaviours you have witnessed
- Fearful to speak up about your work environment or management
- Worried about patient/staff wellbeing
Our Guardians will not judge you and will provide independent advice, but don’t just take our word for it, below are just a few testimonials that colleagues across the Trust have sent to us with their permission.
Testimonials:
Junior doctor said: “I was anxious what the arrangements were going to be for my supervision going forward, but the Freedom to Speak Up Guardians supported me and today I feel comfortable at work.”
A Band 5 colleague commented:” This is definitely needed in the NHS, more so in this Trust, as there are many out there unable to speak due to fears of retaliation or being suppressed into a corner.”
Another colleague said: “We had raised our concerns about remote working but didn’t feel listened to, the Freedom to Speak Up team were able to escalate our concerns anonymously.”
If you relate to any of the concerns raised above, then please do not hesitate to get in contact with our team today by emailing bsmhft.speakup@nhs.net or by leaving a message on our 24-hour voicemail service 0121 301 3940.
