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Freedom to Speak Up

It is important that staff feel safe to speak up. When people share concerns or ideas, we can improve care for patients and make work better for everyone.

At CUH, we encourage all colleagues to speak up about anything that may affect patient care or staff experience.

This includes:

  • Patient safety concerns
  • Fraud or wrongdoing
  • Bullying or harassment
  • Ideas to improve services

Getting support

While we encourage colleagues to speak with their line manager, we recognise that not everyone feels able to do so.

The Freedom to Speak Up Guardian offers a safe and confidential way for our staff to talk about their concerns. They will listen and help staff decide what to do next.

All NHS Trusts in England have a Freedom to Speak Up Guardian to support staff.

Who can contact the Guardian

You can get in touch if you work for CUH in any role, including:

  • Permanent or bank staff
  • Agency workers and contractors
  • Volunteers and students

You can also contact the Guardian if you have left CUH.

When to contact the Guardian

The Guardian can support you if:

  • You are not sure where to go for help
  • You do not feel able to raise concerns in your team
  • You have raised a concern but nothing has happened
  • You are worried about what might happen if you speak up

Contact the service

You can contact the Freedom to Speak Up Guardian by:

For more information, on Connect (Intranet) search: Freedom to Speak Up

If you do not work for CUH

If you are a patient, relative or member of the public, please speak to the care team first.

You can also contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) for help or make a formal complaint.