Dr Jayne Chidgey-Clark has announced that she will be stepping down from her role as National Guardian for the NHS, following four years of service. Jayne was appointed in December 2021 and has led the National Guardian’s Office (NGO) since then.
Reflecting on her time in the role, Dr Chidgey-Clark said:
“It has been an incredible privilege to work with a network of over 1,200 local Guardians across the NHS, independent sector and national bodies. I would like to thank those workers who have had the courage to speak up to their Guardians, and all the Guardians who work so hard to be part of the improving culture in their organisations.
“I also want to thank those leaders who listen well, follow up, and actively demonstrate a listening and learning culture. It has been a privilege to work alongside my team at the National Guardian’s Office, and with patient safety and quality leaders across the NHS, in supporting improvements to the speaking up culture.
“It was with great sadness that I received the news of the abolishment of the National Guardian’s Office and my role, as there is still so much more to do. My hope is that all leaders, managers and regulators will continue to prioritise improving workplace culture and embed the principles and practices of Freedom to Speak Up – so that speaking up, listening up and following up truly become business as usual.”
While the National Guardian role will not be replaced, Beth Carter, National Lead for Guardian Support, will oversee the running of the National Guardian’s Office as interim Director, ensuring continuity during this transitional period.
Suzanne McCarthy, Chair of the National Guardian’s Office’s Accountability and Liaison Board, said:
“On behalf of the Board, I want to recognise Jayne’s commitment to the National Guardian’s Office and to Speak Up Guardians. We warmly thank her for her leadership and contributions.”