NHS England publishes review on culture of ambulance trusts
NHS England published the findings of a review into the culture of ambulance trusts in England.
The review, carried out by Siobhan Melia, the CEO of Sussex Community Healthcare Trust highlights 'deeply concerning' cultural issues in ambulance services, including leadership styles that do not support to speak up and instances where those who voiced concerns faced intimidation and inaction. Alarmingly, the review found that the issue of bullying and harassment, including sexual harassment within ambulance trusts is deeply rooted.
The review argues that poor culture in ambulance services not only impacts staff wellbeing but also undermines patient safety and experience.
The review calls for operational performance to be balanced with people performance at all levels within ambulance trusts, and for patient outcomes to be placed on an equal footing to staff experience.
The review also calls for improvements to the operational environment, line management and undergraduate training; targeted action on bullying and harassment; and for a comprehensive equality, diversity and inclusion improvement plan for the sector.
