We’re calling on the Government to let me create an independent NHS Workforce Ombudsman with powers to investigate, fine, and hold leaders accountable for racism, ableism, homophobia, and bullying. Every day, NHS staff face discrimination, bullying, and intimidation from their colleagues and too often, nothing is done. This is particularly prevalent if the person is disabled, of minoritised ethnicity in the UK, female or LGBTQIA+. Internal HR systems and Employment Tribunals are slow, inconsistent, and often retraumatising for those affected. There is no independent body that can hold NHS leaders to account when they fail to protect their staff from harm.

We are calling on Rt. Hon. Wes Streeting MP, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, to establish an Independent NHS Workforce Ombudsman with the power to:

✅ Investigate systemic discrimination and bullying

✅ Protect whistleblowers and support fair investigations

✅ Fine organisations that ignore or mishandle complaints

✅ Sanction senior leaders who enable harm

This reform would make the NHS safer, fairer, and faster for both staff and patients. A healthy, respected workforce treats patients faster.

Research by Staff Equality Networks Ltd shows that discrimination and burnout cause thousands of NHS staff to leave each year, worsening waiting lists.

With stronger accountability and improved morale, the proposed Ombudsman could help deliver:

• 1.2 million extra patient treatments per year
• 10% reduction in waiting lists within ten years
• 4.7× return on investment through reduced agency spend, sickness, and litigation.

When NHS staff feel safe, valued, and fairly treated, patients are seen sooner, cared for better, and outcomes improve.

 When NHS staff are protected, patients are protected too.

My story: 

I’m Andrea Knowles MSc, a former NHS nurse and equality leader. I’ve seen too many talented people leave or suffer because speaking up cost them their career.

It’s time to protect those who protect us. The reason I gave up Nursing was solely to look after staff.

Please sign and share this petition to demand justice and accountability in the NHS.