Raising concerns: guidance for RCN members

Nursing staff have a responsibility to raise concerns about poor care. Find out how to raise a concern and what support is available to you.

When to raise a concern

Don't wait for a problem to develop. If you see poor care or feel you are being prevented from providing safe, compassionate care, you should raise your concern as soon as you can.

All NHS employees have a contractual right and a duty to raise concerns with their employer that they consider to be in the public interest – including malpractice, patient safety, financial impropriety, or any other serious risks.

How to raise a concern

All employers should have a formal policy for raising concerns, which you should consult for guidance on how to raise your concern in the first instance. The policy should detail with whom you should raise your concern.

You can raise a concern either verbally or in writing. You will need to include some background along with a history of your concerns and the reasons why you are concerned.

Ensure that you keep records and notes throughout the process of the issues that you are concerned about for future reference.

Your employer has a duty to respond. If they do not, the RCN can help you to escalate your concerns.

The RCN's Raising and Escalating Concerns guidance includes a step-by-step guide on how to raise a concern.

How the RCN will support you

At any stage, whether you are following your employer’s policy or the steps outlined here, you can contact the RCN for support and advice. Call the RCN on 0345 772 6100 or talk to your local RCN rep.