This past week has been momentous politically for our nation. Unfortunately it has been characterised by a campaign that has, at times, been bitter, divisive and sometimes led to ill feelings between friends, families and colleagues. As we are all aware, the NHS featured prominently in the campaign.

I am very proud of the high standards of healthcare delivered across Birmingham and the West Midlands by staff in this hospital. Healthcare can only be delivered by excellent teamwork and I am pleased to see that every day in the teams working here. These teams reflect our diverse local community and the diversity of our patients, and are made up of staff from all walks of life, race, beliefs and sexuality. Each member of staff at this hospital is equally valued as an essential part of the team that delivers such excellent healthcare.

All of us who work in healthcare came into the profession to do something positive for others – to use our skills and abilities to care for, and treat, patients. One of our values is “respect”; respect for patients, respect for visitors and respect for each other. That respect works both ways – our staff must be respected for the job they do, the skills and knowledge they bring to caring for patients. They have the right to expect to be treated with respect and courtesy by patients, visitors and members of the public.

There have been some disturbing reports from elsewhere in the NHS of staff facing racist abuse. We value every member of our staff and will seek to protect and support them in all aspects of their work. As an organisation we will not tolerate any abuse of our staff and will seek to take action where appropriate.

With best wishes,
Julie