Freedom to Speak up Guardians (FTSU)

In line with NHS best practice St Andrew's now has a team of ‘Freedom to Speak Up’ Guardians which aim to give staff a confidential and effective way to seek support and guidance in addressing anything within the charity that they think needs to improve.

The scheme was introduced in the NHS following the inquiry into Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust in 2013.

All of our Guardians have been trained to listen and help staff raise any concerns which they have.

Our Freedom to Speak up Guardians help provide support and advice to staff who speak up; they feedback on investigations and take action if patient safety is compromised. They don't carry out investigations themselves.

Along with the below film, our Guardians have also held drop in sessions for staff as well as calls to help promote the programme. Independent advice is available from the National Whistleblowing Helpline: 08000 724 725.