A recent presentation on Freedom to Speak Up (FTSU) has sparked important conversations across the ambulance service, as unions and employers reviewed data from the first half of 2024/25.
The Freedom to Speak Up Guardians play a vital role in allowing staff to raise concerns confidentially and safely. Interestingly, SECAMB (South East Coast Ambulance Service) saw the highest number of contacts to FTSU during Q1 and Q2. While this might seem alarming, it’s been made clear that this does not necessarily mean there are more issues—it could reflect a more open and trusting culture where staff feel comfortable raising their concerns.
However, concerns remain. SECAMB also recorded the highest number of staff reporting detrimental treatment after speaking up, showing that more needs to be done to ensure protection for whistleblowers. Meanwhile, WMAS (West Midlands Ambulance Service) saw the highest number of anonymous reports, suggesting a potential fear of reprisal still exists in some areas.
Key Issues Raised When Speaking Up:
- 32.2% – Worker safety and well-being
- 26.6% – Bullying and harassment
- 13.4% – Patient safety and quality (in line with national average)
- 27.9% – Inappropriate attitudes or behaviors
Notably, sexual safety concerns were reported at a significantly higher rate in ambulance services compared to other NHS sectors – and this does not include student data, which raises serious questions around safeguarding and the working environment for all staff.
Unions have been asked to consider what more detailed information should be included in future updates – a move that could help target improvements and support culture change.
Urgent & Emergency Care Plan: What’s Coming?
The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) gave a brief update on the upcoming Urgent and Emergency Care (UEC) Plan, expected to be published in April 2025.
Although final details are still pending, the plan is set to include:
- Access to mental health services and crisis centres
- Improvements in clinical standards and emergency department care
- Integration of AI and digital technology
- Reforms to ambulance service operations
We’ll be watching closely and will provide full details once the plan is made public.
PTS Services at Risk?
The group raised concerns about cuts to ICB and provider budgets, which could pave the way for greater privatisation of Patient Transport Services (PTS).
Reps are strongly encouraged to ask their trusts locally about plans to keep services in-house. GMB and other unions made it clear: we expect employers to stand up for public provision and resist outsourcing.
Collaborative Statement Finalised ✅
A new collaborative working agreement between unions and employers has been formally agreed. This statement sets the tone for partnership working moving forward and will be shared with staff and union members shortly.
Retirement Working Group
A new working group on retirement will convene in April (exact date TBC). GMB’s Steve Rice will represent members on this important forum.
NQP Programme Still Under Scrutiny
Discussions continue around the Newly Qualified Paramedic (NQP) Programme. While employers have agreed to meet and consider issues raised, they were clear that only the Staff Council can approve formal changes to the national programme.
Unions pushed for urgent progress through the National Ambulance Strategic Partnership Forum (NASPF) and said if talks stall, approaches will be made directly to the Staff Council. There is strong determination not to repeat the delayed and frustrating experience seen during the Section 2 discussions.
✊ GMB EMAS will continue to press for fairness, safety, and accountability across our service. If you have thoughts on any of the issues raised, contact your local GMB rep or branch official.