NHS anti-bullying whistleblower hotline pilot for staff goes live

A WHISTLEBLOWING phone line for NHS staff is to go live today.

The introduction of the line, which is free and confidential, follows last year’s revelations that a bullying culture existed in parts of NHS Lothian, and publication of the Francis report into failures at the Mid-Staffordshire NHS Trust in England.

The phone line, which is available to staff at NHS boards across Scotland, will be piloted for one year and is run by Public Concern at Work, an independent 
organisation.

Health Secretary Alex Neil said: “It is important that all NHS workers feel that they can raise any concerns they may have safely and confidentially, and following the Francis inquiry, be reassured that health boards will listen.

“All areas of concern must be investigated and lessons will be learned to ensure that the NHS in Scotland is providing the best possible service to patients.

“We already have whistleblowing policies in place. Staff can be assured that these policies will be enforced and the alert line will give staff the best possible 
support.”

Any concerns that employees raise will be then passed on to the employer or the relevant regulatory organisation for investigation.

NHS staff can call the line on 0800 008 6112.