Dear Supporters,

I have now received a response from the Minister of State for Health regarding the proposal to establish an independent NHS Workforce Ombudsman.

The response (Ref: PO-1664073, 16 January 2026) states there is “nothing further to add” to a previous reply.

Notably absent:

• Policy reasoning.
• Cost assessment.
• Workforce impact analysis.
• Explanation of alternatives.

The proposal for an NHS Workforce Ombudsman was developed in response to ongoing workforce retention crises and disproportionate disciplinary action affecting Black and minoritised NHS staff but has ballooned to all staff! There are ongoing, documented concerns around psychological safety and whistleblowing and the absence of a truly independent employment redress mechanism specific to NHS staff.

When staff raise concerns about systemic inequity and safety and the response is effectively “we’ve said enough” that signals a lack of accountability.

Independent oversight strengthens institutions. It protects good leadership and exposes harmful practice. Refusing to even explain why such oversight is rejected raises serious questions.

The NHS belongs to the public. Its workforce deserves transparency.

Next steps:

• I will be seeking formal parliamentary clarification.

• I will be submitting this issue for wider scrutiny.

• I will continue engaging media, workforce bodies and equality advocates.

If you are a journalist, NHS staff member, union representative or policy specialist interested in this issue, please get in touch.

This is not about one individual.

It is about structural fairness in the UK’s largest employer.

Thank you for continuing to stand for accountability!

Andi. x