Provider investigating ‘racism and bullying’ complaints

A community services provider has launched an investigation into its staff culture, following concerns including racism and bullying.

Sirona Care and Health, a major provider of NHS and council-funded community services in the south west, told HSJ: ”Our staff have stepped forward to tell our leadership about unacceptable behaviours – both experienced within Sirona’s staffing body and towards our colleagues from patients/service users.

“It is incumbent on all of us, led by our board and senior leadership, to listen and take decisive action towards the culture we want to build.”

Sirona is the main provider of community health services in Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire, and one of the largest healthcare social enterprises.

Speaking at a recent staff question and answer session, interim chief executive Julie Sharma said the former chief executive and chair stepped away from their duties in May “to allow the organisation to carry out an investigation into a whole host of things”.

She said it would cover allegations of racism and bullying in the organisation, but that these allegations “are not directly related” to the former chief CEO or chair.

During the question and answer session, Ms Sharma said the organisation was committed to sharing a “lessons learned” review with staff once the investigation had concluded.

Read full story (paywalled)

Source: HSJ, 9 September 2024