Lead Freedom to Speak Up Guardian

Lead Freedom to Speak Up Guardian

Closing date: 28 June 2026

We are seeking an exceptional and compassionate leader to join our Quality Directorate as Lead Freedom to Speak Up Guardian (FTSU). This part‑time position is 30 hours per week.

• Provide strategic leadership for the FTSU service, ensuring it is accessible, inclusive, and trusted.
• Promote and embed a positive speaking‑up culture through visibility, engagement, and training.
• Offer confidential, impartial advice and support to colleagues raising concerns.
• Ensure appropriate escalation and timely action where concerns impact patient or staff safety.
• Lead the development and delivery of the FTSU strategy, aligned to national guidance and Trust priorities.
• Analyse themes and trends from FTSU data and provide assurance reporting to senior leadership and the Board.
• Build strong relationships with senior leaders and act as an expert adviser on FTSU policy and practice.
• Support organisational learning and continuous improvement from concerns raised.
• Provide leadership and support to the FTSU Guardian team and Ambassador network.

• Educated to master's degree level or have equivalent experience of working at a senior strategic level within an NHS organisation.
• Qualification or experience in counselling, mediation or mental health first aid.
• Registered with the National Guardian's Office and up to date with foundation and refresher training.
• Recognised clinical professional qualification and significant experience working in a clinical environment.

• Demonstrable senior‑level experience in roles related to workforce culture, staff engagement, patient safety, governance, or organisational development, with a strong understanding of speaking‑up principles, worker voice and psychological safety.
• Significant experience of leading or supporting the FTSU agenda, worker voice, psychological safety, or just culture principles.
• Experience working within or alongside governance, quality, HR, staff side and safety systems, ensuring FTSU cases inform organisational learning, improvement, and cultural change.
• Proven ability to embed a just, open, and learning culture where staff can raise concerns without fear of retribution, supported by a clear long‑term vision translated into actionable plans and measurable outcomes.
• Proven experience of managing complex, sensitive, and confidential issues with diplomacy, professionalism, and integrity.

• Knowledge of safeguarding and the ability to signpost staff to appropriate legal and protective support relating to worker protections and patient safety.
• Comprehensive understanding of the FTSU agenda, including national guidance and regulatory expectations, and the ability to apply these effectively within the organisation.

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and requires submission for a Disclosure and Barring Service check.

£57,528 to £64,750 a year (Indicative)

Permanent

Part‑time: 30 hours per week

South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust