West Pennine LMC is introducing a Freedom to Speak Up Guardian (FTSUG) service to support primary care staff who wish to raise concerns, seek advice or discuss workplace issues in a safe and confidential environment.
What is a Freedom to Speak Up Guardian?
A Freedom to Speak Up Guardian is an independent, trained individual who can:
- Listen to concerns confidentially.
- Provide impartial advice and support.
- Help you explore your options.
- Signpost you to appropriate support, policies or reporting routes.
- Promote a culture of openness, learning and improvement.
The Guardian does not investigate concerns directly but can help ensure they reach the right person or organisation.
Why is the LMC offering this service?
We want to support a positive culture across general practice where staff feel able to speak up about concerns affecting:
- Staff wellbeing
- Patient safety
- Workplace culture
- Professional conduct
- Organisational processes and governance
Early conversations can often prevent issues from escalating and help practices create psychologically safe working environments.
Our New Freedom to Speak Up Guardians
Following completion of accredited training, West Pennine LMC's Freedom to Speak Up Guardians will be:
- ED
Emma Delaney
Data Protection Officer
- ML
Mark Lowton
Practice Manager
Further details on how to contact the Guardians will be published once training is complete and the service formally launches.
What should I do in the meantime?
If you have a concern or would like confidential advice before the service launches, please contact West Pennine LMC.
We can discuss your concerns confidentially and help signpost you to the most appropriate source of support.
Confidentiality
Concerns will be handled sensitively and, wherever possible, in confidence. Individuals who raise concerns in good faith should not suffer any detriment for doing so.