Regulatory information
Helpful information and information the Trust is obliged to make public can be found within this section
Safe staffing
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Safe staffing
We are committed to delivering safe, high-quality care by ensuring the right staff, with the right skills, are in the right place at the right time to care for you properly.
Following the publication of the Francis Report in 2013, all NHS hospitals have been required to publish monthly information about nurse, midwife and care staffing levels. This national requirement promotes greater openness and transparency across the health service.
Our Commitment
We maintain a safe environment for both patients and staff by:
- Ensuring appropriate nurse and midwife staffing levels
- Using evidence-based workforce planning tools
- Monitoring patient safety outcomes and feedback
- Applying professional judgement in staffing decisions
Our approach aligns with guidance from the National Quality Board and NHS Improvement to support safe and effective care.
Transparency and Reporting
Each month, we publish our staffing information on our website and on NHS England platforms, ensuring it is accessible to patients and the public. Full reports are also presented at public meetings of our Board of Directors.
Our Safer Staffing Data Report includes:
- Planned versus actual staffing hours by staff group (registered and non-registered nurses, midwives and nursing associates)
- Care Hours Per Patient Day (CHPPD)
How We Maintain Safe Staffing
Responsibility for day-to-day safe staffing sits within our Clinical Divisions. Divisional Heads of Nursing and Midwifery, supported by Matrons, review staffing levels daily and take proactive steps to address any shortfalls.
If staffing pressures arise, we follow a clear escalation process:
- Ward Sister/Midwife/Charge Nurse
Responds to unplanned changes such as sickness or changes in patient acuity (medical condition) or dependency (level of care required). Escalates concerns to the Matron if needed. - Trust Matrons and Senior Midwives
Reallocate staff across their areas to maintain safe cover. Escalate to the Head of Nursing/Midwifery if issues cannot be resolved. - Heads of Nursing and Midwifery
Work with the Trust Temporary Staffing and, where necessary, external nursing agencies. They conduct Trust-wide risk assessments and redeploy staff to ensure safe staffing levels are maintained.
Through this structured and responsive approach, we provide assurance that staffing levels are continuously monitored and adjusted to meet the needs of our patients safely and effectively.
Our Promise
We continually monitor and review staffing across the Trust to make sure patients receive safe, high-quality care at all times.
If you would like more information about staffing on the ward where you are being cared for, please speak to the nurse or midwife in charge.
Safe Staffing contact.
Catherine Livingston
Head of Workforce