Published on: 14 October 2024
The campaign has been developed to give a clear message to everyone that this behaviour will not be tolerated, and to make a commitment to staff that of they will get the full support of the Trusts if they are the victims of it.
This follows startling results from the NHS staff survey in 2023 that revealed, across the whole NHS, 8.67% of more than 650,000 NHS workers who responded reported that they suffered sexual harassment from patients, patients’ relatives, or other members of the public.
The survey also found 3.84% of staff faced unwanted sexual behaviour from colleagues.
Glen Burley, Chief Executive of the Foundation Group, highlighted the campaigns importance: “The message is very simple, we will do everything we can to keep our staff safe and stop discriminatory behaviour.
“Although we have not seen the same numbers that have been reported nationally, even having one person subjected to behaviour they find uncomfortable is one too many.
“Our staff are dedicated to caring and providing the best service possible for our patients and deserve respect at step. I want to make it clear to our staff that if they experience this behaviour to say something, we will listen to you and we will back you.
“Any abuse towards our staff will see zero tolerance which could even include the withdrawal of care for patients or termination of employment if it is from a colleague.”
As part of the commitment from the Trusts they have signed up to the NHS Sexual Safety Charter, which was launched in 2023.
The charter is the first of its kind and sets out 10 pledges which a Trust must abide by, including commitments to provide staff with clear reporting mechanisms, training, and support.
Glen added: “By signing this charter, we make a pledge to our staff that they will receive the right support if they have suffered any form of discrimination and will educate our staff and everyone who uses our services what behaviour will not be tolerated."