Public BoD papers 28.04.22

Ensuring a positive raising concerns culture relies on all staff engaging with the speaking up agenda. This can be done in the following ways:- • setting a positive example

• being open and honest with colleagues • thanking those who raise a concern • viewing a concern raised as an opportunity to improve • listening well and take action • accessing training to support positive behaviours • reflecting on their own behaviours The Trust board are supportive of a positive raising concerns culture and:

• provide the resources required to deliver an effective Freedom to Speak Up function • have an oversight to ensure the policy and procedures are being effectively implemented c. Support The main barriers for those raising concerns are a fear of reprisal and that no action will be taken if they do make the decision to raise issues. Being open and honest with staff throughout the process and providing feedback, as far as might be appropriate to do so, can help to alleviate these worries. Feedback is vital so that those raising concerns understand how their disclosure has been handled and is dealt with. It is important that expectations are discussed with the person raising the concern about how the process will proceed and how outcomes are reached. It is important that appropriate support is offered to staff raising concerns, and those who have concerns raised against them, all the way through the process, not just at the point of them raising a concern. There are different types of advice and support available to staff who have raised concerns or are dealing with concerns raised with them as follows:-: • HR department • Freedom to Speak Up Guardian • Trade unions • The Employee Assistance Helpline • Speakup.direct • Occupational Health Interventions can include counselling, stress management and/or mediation. d. Learning Sharing the learning and providing ongoing opportunity for reflective practice and learning will support a good raising concerns culture. Learning will be shared via appropriate channels depending on the nature and confidentiality of the concern.

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