We are writing to all practices to highlight the advice NHS England is providing regarding the prevention of sexual misconduct within the NHS. Obviously the LMC supports this principle, but is concerned that, framed as guidance and “expectation”, this is creating a further unresourced workload within GP practices. NHS England are also asking ICBs to monitor GP practices in relation to the first two actions below, neither of which are specified within the Regulations.
NHS England has suggested GP practices:-
- Sign up to the principles of the Sexual Safety Charter: Sexual safety in healthcare – Organisational Charter sign up – Primary Care
- Complete the Sexual Safety Charter self-assurance checklist: PRN02280-annex-b-sexual-safety-carter-self-assurance-checklist-for-primary-care-providers.docx
- Review chaperoning policies in line with an updated NHS guidance: NHS England » Improving chaperoning practice in the NHS: key principles and guidance
- Ask members of staff to complete the national elearning module on Sexual Safety Awarenes: Understanding sexual misconduct in the workplace
Clearly practices are likely to be undertaking most if not all of these points within the context of their pre-existing HR policies, safeguarding policies and reporting protocols for incidents.
It is therefore a matter for practices whether they wish to formally sign the Charter, and confirm having done so, as suggested by NHS England.
The checklist is again a matter for practices; if it is a helpful process for practices to review and confirm their current arrangements are up-to-date, then this tool may assist. It is also the case that if the CQC enquires about this element of the practices staff training programme and policies, this would represent demonstrable evidence in this regard. However, whether the “Action Plan Template” needs to be completed should again be a matter for practices’ discretion and perceived utility and alongside the checklist it is not mandatory.