Trust upgraded despite staff reports of discrimination and fear

A large acute trust has had its leadership rating upgraded from “inadequate”, despite serious concerns, including allegations that a board member made “divisive and discriminatory remarks” about a Ramadan initiative.

University Hospitals Sussex Foundation Trust’s “well led” rating has moved to “requires improvement” in a Care Quality Commission report published.

It said the trust had made progress since 2023 when its leadership was rated “inadequate”, and that there was “strong commitment from staff” and “effective partnership working in some areas”.

Inspectors said the trust’s leaders were “passionate”, with “a clear intent… to improve”. They “understand what is required” and “the priority now is to deliver improvements with pace and purpose”, the CQC said.

However, the inspection report listed some serious reservations and concerns.

It said leaders still needed “to strengthen action to ensure fair and inclusive working conditions for all staff groups”.

Staff told inspectors who visited in July last year that a non-executive director – who was not identified to the CQC – did not support an initiative to provide Muslim staff with fruit and drinks to break their fast during Ramadan, and had made “divisive and discriminatory remarks”.

Other staff reported “fear and toxicity”, with “poor behaviours” from directors.

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Source: HSJ, 8 May 2026