A HOSPITAL in York has launched a new programme to encourage staff to challenge anyone - including senior colleagues - who may be putting patients at risk.

Clifton Park Hospital’s ‘Speaking Up for Safety’ programme is intended to empower employees to tackle colleagues’ bad behaviour, such as failing to washing their hands.

The private hospital is one of 33 Ramsay Health Care hospitals across the UK which will be taking part in the programme.

Ramsay said it was the first hospital group in the UK to launch the initiative, in partnership with the Cognitive Institute.

A spokeswoman said the programme built on the philosophy of the group’s founder Paul Ramsay of ‘people caring for people,’ and it promoted professional accountability within the hospital and highlighted any behaviour which undermined a culture of safety.

“Ramsay Health Care UK has invested in an extensive training programme with staff across England to make sure they understand how the system works and how to address issues that arise in day-to-day situations,” she said.

“Elements of the scheme include graded assertiveness training for all staff and a feedback platform for staff to report both positive and negative experiences, all of which equip staff with the confidence to speak up for safety.

“Speaking Up for Safety is part of Clifton Park Hospital?s commitment to supporting the culture of safety and ensuring high professional standards are maintained throughout the organisation.”

Dr Andy Jones, CEO of Ramsay Health Care UK, said: “ ?We are thrilled to be leading the way in the UK as the first hospital group to introduce the programme and are proud to have an excellent team supporting the initiative.

“We are committed to providing the highest levels of safety across the hospitals and protecting our patients and staff to the greatest standard.”

Clifton Park Hospital opened off Shipton Road in 2006 as a modern, purpose built hospital.

It has 24 beds, two theatres, a day case unit, a large outpatient department with X-ray facilities and on-site physiotherapy, including a small gym area.