Hospitals appoint Lynne as '˜staff guardian'

Hospital staff in Burnley and across East Lancashire are being encouraged to voice any concerns they might have to their new staff guardian.
East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust's new staff guardian Lynne Barton (s)East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust's new staff guardian Lynne Barton (s)
East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust's new staff guardian Lynne Barton (s)

Lynne Barton has been appointed to the role to help change the culture among employees and speak up for staff who raise issues.

Lynne has more than 40 years’ service in the NHS and has held several senior management posts during a 22-year career with East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust and its predecessor organisations.

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“I’ve had a great career and worked with some fantastic people over the years,” said Lynne.

“Staff are our greatest asset and to be given this opportunity to develop this new role as staff guardian is very rewarding.”

In September 2015, the Trust became the third in the country to introduce the staff guardian position, an initiative subsequently followed by 20 other NHS trusts.

Mr Kevin McGee, chief executive of East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust, said: “Lynne has been a respected member of staff for more than 20 years and I am delighted that she will be the Trust’s first staff guardian.

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“We know that healthcare professionals are committed to delivering good care, day in and day out and that many organisations respond to any concerns they may have openly and transparently as a normal part of working. This results in better and safer care for patients.

“As staff guardian, Lynne will strive to ensure that this is common practice right across the Trust. By working with staff at all levels she will contribute to the change in culture that is needed.”