NHS England (NHSE) has launched a package of support to help NHS nurses and other healthcare staff report sexual misconduct at work – including a new route where staff can report incidents anonymously.
While the policy will be applicable for NHS nurses, including those working in community settings, NHSE said it would be up to individual GP practices or primary care networks (PCNs) to decide whether to adopt it.
The framework outlines how those working in the health service should ‘recognise, report and act on’ sexual misconduct in the workplace.
The framework, launched this week, includes brand new guidance for those conducting investigations following a disclosure from a colleague, including plans to form a specialist review group with access to experts and independent investigators, and detailed steps to ensure the right support has been offered.
As part of the support package, there will be an ‘additional route’ for staff to report sexual abuse via an anonymous form – allowing individuals to report an incident without disclosing their name or personal details.
While all cases will be confidential, line managers and HR teams will also have direct access to sexual misconduct experts, including in safeguarding and those with lived experience.
The framework also allows employees to access support from new specially trained ‘allies’, as well as Freedom to Speak Up Guardians who will also receive specialist training to improve the support they offer.
The policy framework covers all NHS employees, contractors, agency staff and temporary workers, including NHS nurses working in the community.
Commenting on the framework NHSE chief executive, Amanda Pritchard, said staff must have ‘absolute confidence’ they will be given the support they need when they speak up.
‘This new national policy will help colleagues right across the NHS to ensure they are taking the right steps in recognising, reporting and acting on sexual misconduct at work, and by introducing the option of anonymous reporting we are making it easier for staff to come forward to report issues – it marks our serious commitment to stamping out this horrendous behaviour,’ she added.
The new policy covers sexual misconduct connected to work or the workplace, which it said could include:
- sexual comments or jokes
- unwanted touching or kissing
- showing sexual pictures
- staring at someone in a sexual way
- asking personal questions about someone’s sex life
- sexual assault or rape
The framework comes during Freedom to Speak Up Month (FTSPU) which has seen ICBs urged to ensure all primary care nurses have access to safe and secure speaking up routes.
In August, Nursing in Practice explored the support available to practice nurses when they speak up, as well as potential changes needed.
