The National Guardian’s Office today publishes the latest annual speaking up data report, which summarises the themes and learning from the speaking up data shared by Freedom to Speak Up guardians from 1 April 2024 – 31 March 2025.
Key findings
- 2024/25 saw the highest number of cases reported to guardians since the programme began.
- Workers continue to express positive views about the Freedom to Speak Up Guardian role.
- Inappropriate attitudes and behaviours remain the most common theme of concern.
- Concerns related to worker safety and wellbeing are increasing.
- Confidence in organisations to address concerns is in decline.
- NHS trusts are showing a positive shift, with more full-time guardians being appointed.
Charlie Cassell, Director of Operations and Strategy for the National Guardian’s Office, said: “The data report shows that workers value and use our network of Freedom to Speak Up guardians to speak up safely. With increasing numbers of workers speaking up it’s more important than ever that guardians have the continued support of their organisations after the closure of the National Guardian’s Office. This support is critical to support workers to feel confident to speak up without fear of detriment or futility.”
Read the report: Culture is a patient safety issue: Annual Speaking Up data report
Find out more about the cases raised with Freedom to Speak Up guardians