The most senior healthcare official in Argyll and Bute has apologised to all NHS staff in the area who have experienced bullying while at work.
Joanna McDonald also pledged to take action after a report revealed that 68% of workers who responded to a survey had been bullied during their time working for the health and social care partnership (HSCP).
A total of 446 employees – 29% of the NHS workforce in the HSCP – responded to the independent survey, along with 62 former colleagues.
A report had previously branded the figures as ‘deeply concerning’.
The survey did not include the 770 Argyll and Bute Council social care staff who work with the HSCP, but Ms McDonald pledged that all further research will include those workers too.
Discussion of the report took place at a meeting of the partnership’s integration joint board (IJB) which was conducted via Skype yesterday.
Ms McDonald said: “I would like to apologise to all staff who have experienced bullying or harassment.
“Having been here for 20 months, I am really disappointed that we haven’t seen the level of improvement that we would have liked, and staff are experiencing bullying in a way we don’t expect.
“I have given a commitment that the plan of action will reflect the voices of all those people who have given their experiences in such a brave way.
“We also heard from staff who have previously worked in Argyll and Bute and that has enabled us to have a good understanding of our areas for improvement.”
In a report published for the meeting, Ms McDonald also said: “It is distressing to see that a significant number of our colleagues have experienced bullying and harassment and addressing the implications of this report is our highest priority.
“We would like to thank those who have responded to the survey for having the bravery to respond.
“We know how challenging it is for colleagues to confront the issues they are sharing with us.
“We will work in close partnership with colleagues and stakeholders across all of the organisation to deliver the actions necessary to achieve a culture that is based upon dignity and respect for each other.”
Earlier this week the NHS Highland board approved the start of a ‘Healing Process’ which will have a dedicated website, email address and telephone number administered by an independent partner.
NHS Highland chair Professor Boyd Robertson said: “We have been unequivocal in our support of those who have experienced bullying and harassment.
“The whole board stands four-square behind the victims of bullying and we reaffirm that we are deeply sorry for the harm that has been caused.
“The Healing Process has been co-produced with colleagues, trade unions and whistleblowers and I want to thank everyone who has invested their time to work with us in developing this approach. We want to continue to develop a culture where every member of staff feels listened to, valued and respected.”
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