The results of the Freedom to Speak Up independent review have been published containing proposals for creating an honest and open reporting culture in the NHS. The review was set up last year to address concerns about the treatment of staff who speak up about unsafe patient care and treatment. The report sets out a number of key principles which should be followed to bring about the change required, which include:

– Every organisation involved in providing NHS healthcare should actively foster a culture of safety and learning in which all staff feel safe to raise concerns.

– Freedom to speak up about concerns depends on staff being able to work in a culture which is free from bullying and other oppressive behaviours.

– All employers of NHS staff should demonstrate, through visible leadership at all levels in the organisation that they welcome and encourage the raising of concerns by staff.

While the recommendations focus on the NHS, they could form the basis for a review by all organisations wishing to foster a supportive culture where staff do feel able to raise legitimate concerns.

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