We’ve seen a large increase in the number of Freedom to Speak Up (FTSU) concerns raised anonymously, and while colleagues are welcome to share their concerns without sharing their name, our FTSU Guardian, Carol Gregson tells us in CHFT's Speak Up Week why it’s more of a challenge to investigate them fully and check in on colleague welfare as a result.

“Over the past year we’ve had 172 concerns raised, 49 anonymously, which is an increase of 6% on the previous year.

“Of course, there is always a place for anonymous concerns, but in my role I may read a concern and need to find out more detail. Our colleagues live and breathe their job, and sometimes I may need more clarity around a concern, to check colleagues are ok and to signpost them to any extra support they may need.

“I investigate every single concern, anonymous or not, and I take great pride in checking in with colleagues to see how they’re doing. I also like to follow up with them after a concern has been closed to measure the impact of any changes that may have happened as a result.

“So if you feel comfortable, please share your name when you log a concern in the portal so I can give you the best service.

"I'll be at HRI on Tuesday to raise awareness of FTSU and with some of our fab ambassadors at CRH on Thursday too, so do look out for us."

More information about Freedom to Speak Up 

Read more about Freedom to Speak Up and see a list of all our ambassadors on our intranet.

Carol offers a set drop-in time for colleagues to visit

• HRI, Tuesdays between 13:30 and 15:30. Main corridor, ground floor, almost across from General Office.
• CRH, Thursdays between 09:00 and 11:00. Outside of old ward 3, down the corridor on the right-hand side. 

Or call her on 07442 821 120.

We waved a fond farewell to Carol’s colleague and joint FTSU Guardian, Caroline Lane, as she retired from CHFT last week.