Ambulance service’s bid to ‘benefit staff and patients’

North West Ambulance Service logo

Trade union representatives and managers at North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust have signed an agreement that has seen them join forces for the benefit of staff and patients.

The Joint Partnership Council comprises senior managers and representatives from recognised trade unions and was established to improve employee relations above and beyond the norm.

Discussion and negotiation of any matters that impact on the workforce formed part of the agreement such as implementing policies, staff welfare, service development, performance, staff retention, budgets, training and communications.

Whilst unions and managers have always had close working relationships, the agreement formalised both parties’ commitment to the success of the Trust whilst recognising different and legitimate interests. It strives for a win-win solution and is intended to bring to life the values of the Trust whilst retaining focus on staff and patients. 

Chief Executive, Darren Hurrell, said: “The partnership approach enables joint ownership of problems and solutions to get the best outcome. It ensures better patient care by involving those staff in decisions that are closest to patients.

“Involving staff in decisions that affect them improves communication and builds more trusting and respectful working relationships.”

The jointly agreed principles of the partnership include being open and honest, promoting positivity and respect, early discussion, commitment to learn, building consensus and collaboration, mutual respect, ensuring a no surprises culture and taking joint responsibility for all decisions.

Mr Hurrell continued: “I am delighted that we now have a framework in place to enable us to find joint solutions to the increasing challenges faced by the public sector. This agreement is testament to the hard work and willingness of managers and staff side to work in partnership for the benefit of staff and patients.”

Steve Rice, Staff Side Secretary said: “Staff side are pleased that the partnership agreement will now mean that we are involved in the decision making process as opposed to being consulted.”

The council will meet quarterly.