Review into organisational culture
Published on 27/09/2023
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust (UHB) has today published a report into culture, following a thorough and extensive analysis of how staff think and feel about working at the organisation. The report provides a comprehensive and detailed overview of where UHB needs to focus and improve, as well as highlighting positive themes, feedback and practices.
The independent culture review, which was undertaken between April and September 2023, heard from over 4,000 members of staff, through a range of methods including confidential surveys, anonymous digital routes, listening groups, site walkabouts and confidential interviews.
The review highlights how some unacceptable behaviours and poor working practices have developed, which have caused many staff to feel isolated, discriminated against, unsafe and undervalued. UHB apologises for this and commits to creating the best possible place to work, which supports all staff and enables them to flourish.
The Culture Review also highlights that, despite significant challenges in staff experience, staff remain committed and proud to provide care to the population they serve.
Jonathan Brotherton, Chief Executive, said: “We are very sorry for the unacceptable behaviours and working practices that the Culture Review highlights and welcome the recommendations, which we fully commit to implementing. They provide further, extensive and independent insight into how our colleagues think and feel about working at UHB.
“Whist the review makes very difficult reading, it resonates with what we have heard directly from staff. We have begun putting into place changes in structure, and in leadership, which will provide a good foundation for the further actions we need to take to improve morale and address staff concerns.
“I want to reinforce that we continue to listen and respond, and that we are committed to acting on what our colleagues have told us, and will continue to tell us.
“Over 4,000 colleagues have clearly stated:
- They want to feel valued for what they do
- They want to feel psychologically and sexually safe
- They want zero tolerance of bullying, harassment, racism and all forms of discrimination
- They want to be treated fairly, consistently and be confident to speak up and be heard
“We want this too and will do everything possible to achieve this, as we strive to become the best possible place to work and the best possible place to receive care and treatment.
“Our new operational model - the first phase of which goes live next week on Monday 02 October 2023 - will create local leadership at hospital level, whilst maintaining the benefits of working at scale. It will deliver increased engagement with colleagues across our services and a determined focus on building a values-led culture, which rightly prioritises the welfare and wellbeing of all.”
The report sets out four fundamental shifts as recommendations, which are all fully accepted by UHB’s Trust Board. An associated action plan and progress tracker will be produced and reported on at future public board meetings.
This review, into UHB’s culture, does not raise any concerns about patient safety.
The report can be viewed, in full, on our Culture Review website:
