Cathy Trevaldwyn Evidence is a series in which a group of lawyers discuss the legal issues around a topic under the chairmanship of Clive Anderson. After discussing what whistleblowing is the discussion widened to include duty of candour telling a patient or their carer about errors in their care. Lisa Anastasiou, Director of Workforce and Development, responds: can confirm that the contract is both appropriate and legal. It specifically refers to whistleblowing under the section headed and Freedom of Speech and it was reviewed and revised canada goose jacket in August 2013, so it takes due account of the Francis outcomes. This is the relevant extract from under that heading: should you be particularly concerned about an issue within the Trust, you should raise this with your immediate manager in the first instance. Freedom of speech is encouraged in accordance with NHS Public Policy and the Trust Whistleblowing Policy. In particular, staff are encouraged to report any reasonable concerns about unlawful acts at work including but not limited to financial malpractice, abuse of patients, dangers to the public or the environment and any other health and safety issues in accordance with the Whistleblowing policy. Following the review mentioned above the canada goose jacket policy went through a number of committees for approval Joint Consultative Committee (with the Unions), Risk Governance Committee and Audit committee. Consultation on the current policy included Local Counter fraud Service. It is quite a functional policy with clear steps to follow if you have an issue to raise. I have agreed with Ray Cox (Non Executive Director) to review it again later this year to see whether we want something seen as less and driven and more proactive in encouraging staff come forward should they have any concerns whatsoever. Any subsequent major changes to this policy have to be approved by the Board. Cathy does every member of staff know and understand this policy? Lisa Fundamentally yes, though what we do want them to understand is how to raise concerns. The evidence says staff understand how to do so. The numbers are reported to the Board of Directors and on 26 September we reported 13 in the last year. We also have Respect Dignity advisers who are trained about whistleblowing as part of their role, and we encourage staff to speak canada goose jacket to them should they have issues. Cathy If someone whistleblows are they kept informed of what happens as a result? Lisa Yes they are if it not an anonymous complaint and we know who to keep informed. The policy is clear that managers must keep the informed of the progress of any investigation, and if subsequently there is no action taken, why this is the case. Lisa Andrew is very responsive to any complaints he receives and he encourages staff to do so directly with him (which they do). Cathy Is a procedure in place for the whistleblower to be protected from discrimination from colleagues. Lisa Yes; if staff feel they are being victimised in any way, they should use the Trust Grievance policy. In addition our policy says that any member of staff who is believed to be victimising another employee who has raised concerns will face disciplinary proceedings, which could amount to gross misconduct (and a possible dismissal). Cathy How would the Trust react to an applicant who had whistleblown elsewhere a trouble maker or somebody who should be welcomed all other considerations being equal? Lisa It wouldn be an issue; we take professional standards and values very seriously. Cathy I wish I had listened to this programme before the NED interviews where of candour was one of the topics, I would have known a bit more what I was talking about!