‘Inappropriate behaviours’ persist despite ‘substantial progress’ on trust’s board

Cultural issues persist at a large teaching trust, despite “substantial progress” at board level, according to an external review it commissioned.

Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals Foundation Trust ordered the review to assess change since it was rated “inadequate” for leadership by the Care Quality Commission in 2024, amid leadership and culture problems.

It praised “renewed leadership that has driven significant, positive change from the top”, a “cohesive, professional and collegiate board” and a “clear focus on board visibility”.

Despite the board improvements, the review, by advisory firm Grant Thornton UK, said an “overwhelming majority” of complaints raised by staff still involved “inappropriate attitudes” and “behaviours” – particularly in incidents with line managers.

It recommended NUTH should continue work to improve culture and leadership, because progress made at the top had not been “embedded” throughout the rest of the organisation.

Specifically, the trust should improve the quality of its line management, bolster trust in a revised “freedom to speak up” process, and promote “greater diversity and inclusion”, it said.

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Source: HSJ, 11 February 2026