Advice for health service bullying victims

Having worked for the #NHS Welsh health service for 30ish years, I was aware bullying occurred. But it was happening to other people, in far off units. It came as a shock, when, after raising safety concerns, I too became a victim. #bullying

With reflection I would like to share some tips, things I wish I knew back when it started in 2014.

1. The health service is neither ethical or moral. It functions on bullying, lies and abuse. If you thought it was ethical and moral you are living in la la land.

2. As soon as you get a whiff of top down abuse, move job. It’s pretty relentless and your career is now officially going no where.

3. There is no such thing as human rights in the Welsh health service. Unfair hearings and persecution are pretty much what happens after you are targeted. Heck, I even had five months of professional solitary confinement on the basis of flimsy evidence (BMAspeak, not my words) aka fabricated evidence (my words). #unions

4. Do gather evidence immediately. Keep a file, screen shoot documents and place them in a safe. Emails can be removed from your work log in. I had my emails hacked.

5. Join a union. I had fantastic assistance from the BMA ( this is not universal but I am eternally glad I had my rep on side).

6. Read the precise wording of any phoney investigation terms. Make them stick to it religiously. I’m not kidding when I say, they make it up as they go along.

7. Find a support network – ideally of other bullied staff. I was 100% better when I realised that I was not the only person being victimised. If you happen to be a whistle blower or victim in Wales you can contact me to discuss the Welsh victim support group DoNoHarmWales.

8. Speak to your AM. Mine was very supportive. Sadly, I did this too late to save my career.

9. Last point- don’t risk your mental health. It’s simply not worth it. There is a life outside of the NHS. You are not the first health service victim and you won’t be the last.

I hope this was helpful. Please contact me if you have any issues around these points, Oh and Good luck.