Freedom to speak up

Freedom to speak up is a fundamental element of an open culture. As a sector we have strongly encouraged the sector to appoint and nurture Freedom to Speak Up Guardians (FTSUGs). Last year we were pleased to report that there were over 330 FTSUGs promoting the speak up agenda at independent providers – that represented an increase of over 70% since the beginning of 2022. In addition to these Guardians, there are many more FTSUG Ambassadors in the sector. 

We are delighted to report that this year the number is now over 500 – an increase of a further 50% over the course of a year demonstrating the sectors to commitment to creating an open culture.  

Case study

Spire Healthcare currently has 230 FTSUGs and ambassadors, with 93% of FTSU guardians saying they feel valued by management and 91% feeling valued by colleagues. The chief executive personally leads this agenda, sponsoring protected weekly time for guardians, and ensuring senior leadership reviews data weekly. As a result, 95% of colleagues are aware of the role of FTSUGs and 83% would be comfortable raising concerns with their FTSUG, including on patient safety, bad practice or serious risk.