NHS staff will be able to anonymously report incidents of sexual misconduct as part of new plans to improve safety for staff.
Issued to local hospitals, the new framework is available from today (Wednesday 16 October) and outlines how those working in the NHS should recognise, report and act on sexual misconduct in the workplace.
In the first policy of its kind within the NHS, the health service’s chief executive Amanda Pritchard said she hopes that any member of staff who experiences sexual abuse will feel they can speak up. Staff should have every confidence that they will be listened to, supported and that appropriate action will be taken, she added.
As part of the support package, there will now be an additional route for staff to report sexual abuse via an anonymous form. They do not have to disclose their name or personal details.
In addition, it includes brand new guidance for those conducting investigations following a disclosure from a colleague, including forming a specialist review group with access to subject matter experts and independent investigators, and a detailed set of steps to ensure the right support has been offered.
Staff who have experienced sexual abuse may be offered a range of pastoral support, including reasonable adjustments and special leave if required. NHS staff are also being urged to complete new training on how to recognise and respond to disclosures of sexual misconduct safely and appropriately.
Trusts are being asked to bring in additional senior level oversight with members of the executive board responsible for monitoring data on sexual misconduct.
‘Serious commitment’
Amanda Pritchard said: ‘For anyone who has experienced sexual abuse or misconduct at work, it is an extremely distressing and isolating experience, and so we must do everything in our power to ensure our staff feel able to speak up, and have absolute confidence that they will be given the support they need when they do.
‘This new national policy will help colleagues right across the NHS to ensure they are taking the right steps in recognising, reporting and acting on sexual misconduct at work, and by introducing the option of anonymous reporting we are making it easier for staff to come forward to report issues – it marks our serious commitment to stamping out this horrendous behaviour.
‘There is absolutely no place for sexual misconduct or abuse of any kind within the NHS – a place where staff come to work every day to provide compassionate care and support to others, and we know that women are more likely to be affected – this is unacceptable, and we must not tolerate it.
‘While this is just one of the first steps to ending harmful sexual behaviour in the NHS, and more action is needed, I strongly encourage every leader across the NHS to look at how they adopt these measures from today, to ensure that when our staff come to work, they feel safe and supported – together we can make a difference.’
‘Strong and clear message’
Raj Rattan is dental director at Dental Protection. He said: ‘The steps set out to tackle sexual misconduct in the NHS, and better support those affected, are welcome. All healthcare workers, dental professionals included, need to be reassured that their safety is a priority.
‘Experiencing or witnessing sexual misconduct – whether from a patient or a colleague – can lead to emotional distress and long-term psychological harm. It can affect the individual’s ability to perform their professional duties which in turn compromises the quality of patient care.
‘It is vital that the new policy and guidance is implemented and integrated into everyday practice to protect the workforce. Seeing that it is being adopted and enforced will send a strong and clear message that this behaviour will not be tolerated.’
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