More must be done to tackle sexual harassment in the NHS

Responding to a new UNISON survey showing widespread sexual harassment of NHS staff, Sir Julian Hartley, chief executive at NHS Providers said: 

"Trust leaders do not tolerate any form of sexual harassment in the NHS.

"These findings are deeply concerning and make clear more must be done to stamp out this type of unacceptable behaviour towards staff.

"Trust leaders are working incredibly hard to ensure every NHS employee is rightly treated with dignity and respect.

"All staff must be and feel safe at work. This includes feeling confident to speak up and raise concerns. The recent ambulance culture review set out good practical actions to achieve this. 

"The NHS' first-ever sexual safety charter, published last year, is also vital to supporting trusts' effort to protect staff.

"We encourage all healthcare organisations to sign up to this charter to ensure that a zero-tolerance approach is taken across the healthcare system."