09.01.20
NHS Providers: More work to do to tackle unfair treatment in NHS
Following the release of a survey by the General Medical Council (GMC) of specialty and associate specialist (SAS) and locally employed (LE) doctors, NHS Providers deputy chief executive Saffron Cordery has called for further work to drive out bullying and unfair treatment within the NHS.
Ms Cordery said: “Today’s survey findings are extremely concerning. It is unacceptable for any NHS member of staff to experience bullying and undermining behaviour from colleagues and patients. These actions fundamentally contradict the core values of the NHS of respect and dignity, compassion and inclusion.
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“Professionals working in SAS and locally employed roles are essential members of the NHS workforce. And yet it is clear that SAS doctors have been experiencing disproportionate feeling of isolation, and being undervalued, for some time.
“It is particularly distressing to see that race is the most commonly-cited factor in reports of bullying behaviour. We know that there are strong links between a diverse workforce and good patient care.
“Trusts are aware of the need to improve the offer to staff working in these roles, but more work and wider support is needed to ensure that this trend discontinues across the health and care system.
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“In the coming months, we hope to see agreement over a new multi-year contract for SAS doctors which should help set the foundations for improved recognition and reward.
“The NHS must also act swiftly with an ambition to exponentially improve the experience of BME staff in 2020 and beyond.”