Betsi Cadwaladr: Staff reaction as health board comes out of special measures

UNISON staff representatives at Betsi Cadwaladr have praised the efforts of healthcare workers as central to transforming the working culture at the Health Board.

Yesterday, the Health Minister announced Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCU) would come out of five years of special measures.

In that time, UNISON took a pro-active approach to working in partnership with the health board in pushing for change and its North Wales health branch has spoken of its pride in the dedication of local healthcare workers.

Jan Tomlinson, UNISON branch secretary said,

“This decision is a vindication of the hard work of every single healthcare employee at Betsi.

“The last five years haven’t always been easy but UNISON immediately decided to be as closely involved as possible in turning round a health board seen as failing. We needed to put the staff’s point of view at the heart of strategic decisions and senior executives needed to hear the employees’ ideas for change.

“We had an overwhelming response when we asked healthcare workers to complete UNISON’s questionnaire about what they would change and this has helped lead improvements. Staff highlighted how better communication was a priority and restoring people’s pride in working for BCU.

“I would like to praise the professionalism and care of staff who have worked tirelessly in partnership to see BCU be taken out of special measures.

“Healthcare staff have embraced change and we are delivering the best care for all patients and the community.

“Well done to all staff of every grade; you have all played your part. We as a Branch couldn’t be prouder of you and applaud each and every one of you.”

Contact

Alastair Gittins, UNISON Cymru Wales press officer on 07816 53 83 97