We’re supporting the Independent National Whistleblowing Officer’s Speak Up Week, starting on Monday.
This annual initiative is a reminder of the importance of nurturing a healthy “speak up” culture, empowering staff at every level to voice concerns, knowing they’ll be listened to, respected and treated with compassion.
Whistleblowing is when someone providing a service for the NHS in Scotland, speaks up – in the public interest – about something that has either happened, or not happened yet, that could cause a risk of harm or wrongdoing.
Lesley McDonald, a Non-Executive Director on the Board of NHS Lanarkshire, is our Whistleblowing Champion.
She explained: “A robust whistleblowing system is vital to the organisation’s continuous improvement. True service excellence is built on transparency and trust.
“There have been positive changes in NHS Lanarkshire as a direct result of the insight and courage of colleagues who have raised concerns. Speaking up has led to tangible improvements, making the system not only an important safety net but also a catalyst for positive change.
“While whistleblowing is available, it’s generally not the first step for staff with concerns – contacting your line manager is encouraged as the initial point of contact, where appropriate. However, when another route feels more suitable, staff can use the formal whistleblowing process, safe in the knowledge that their voices will be heard and concerns acted upon, in a completely confidential manner.”
Nurse Director Trudi Marshall, our Executive Lead for Whistleblowing, is overseeing and supporting the effective delivery of our whistleblowing policy.
Trudi said: “Ongoing efforts are in place to make the whistleblowing process as easy as possible, including a new webpage and a new process. These improvements will make it easier to understand how concerns can be raised and addressed, reinforcing our commitment to look at all concerns openly and focusing on staff wellbeing.
“During Speak Up Week, we’re encouraging all staff to reflect on the value of raising concerns and the positive difference it can make. We want to have a culture where speaking up is welcomed and supported, so that we can continue to deliver safe, high-quality care to the people of Lanarkshire.
“A vital aspect of speaking up is the presence of confidential contacts. These are staff members who provide a safe, informal and confidential first point of contact for anyone wishing to raise a concern.
“Confidential contacts have this role in addition to their normal ‘day job’. They offer reassurance, support and guidance on how best to raise a concern. To strengthen this vital support network, we’re seeking additional confidential contacts.”
If you’re interested in taking on this rewarding role, please contact Board Secretary Jennifer Haynes – jennifer.haynes@lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk – who is responsible for making sure the whistleblowing function operates smoothly and meets the National Whistleblowing Standards required of all health boards in Scotland.
- Check out the new whistleblowing section on the NHS Lanarkshire website
- If you would like more information on Speak Up week, you can visit: Speak Up Week | INWO
- If you have a concern you wish to report, you can do so by first contacting one of our confidential contacts for advice. Our confidential contacts are:
- Head of Evidence Amanda Minns – amanda.minns@lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk
- Radiographer Nsenam Obot – nsenam.obot@lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk
- Alternatively, you can whistleblow directly by emailing: uMatter@lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk
