Job overview
The Deputy Freedom to Speak Up (FTSU) Guardian will operate under the supervision of the Lead FTSU Guardian, deputising when necessary, whilst working alongside the Trust leadership teams to support the Trust in being an open and transparent place to work, where all employees are actively encouraged and supported to speak up. The Deputy FTSU Guardian will help to improve patient safety and quality of care, improve the experience of staff, and promote a learning environment.
The role includes supporting the development and implementation of the FTSU vision and strategy to ensure a speaking up culture is embedded across the Trust. The post holder will also lead on developing and delivering a trust-wide communications strategy.
Main duties of the job
The Deputy FTSU Guardian will manage a complex caseload and provide confidential support and advice to individuals raising concerns. The post holder will be expected to work independently and will need to be flexible and creative in their approach.
The post holder will support and contribute to the regional and national FTSU Guardian networks, comply with National Guardian's Office guidance, and support other Guardians by providing peer to peer support and sharing learning.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
Please see attached job description and person specification for further information and full details of the role.
Person specification
Skills
Essential
- Excellent presentation and report writing skills.
- Excellent interpersonal, listening and communication skills.
- Excellent organisational skills.
- Ability to develop and lead on the delivery of a trust wide communication strategy.
- Ability to interpret, analyse, complex facts or situations.
- Problem recognition and problem-solving skills, including conflict resolution, negotiation skills.
- Resilient and able to perform effectively under pressure.
Desirable
- Mediation skills
Knowledge
Essential
- Knowledge of the speaking up agenda and the wider national policy provisions.
- Knowledge of how to effectively lead and motivate people particularly in relation to change and improving people experience.
- Knowledge of and the ability to effectively apply national guidance, regulation and legislation in relation to FTSU processes.
Experience
Essential
- Experience of managing case work effectively
- Experience of working independently without supervision.
- Experience of problem solving and facilitating change.
- Experience of involving staff in service development and feedback.
- Experience of dealing with sensitive and confidential information.
- Experience of working with and bringing about positive change for people from a diverse range of backgrounds.
Desirable
- Experience of using electronic information and databases
- Understanding of relevant national policies and legislation: Public Interest Disclosure Act, Data Protection Act and the Equality Act
- Experience of using a project management approach
Qualifications
Essential
- Educated to degree level or able to demonstrate equivalent experience.
Desirable
- Evidence of continued professional development
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Applying for this NHS job
This advert is for Deputy Freedom to Speak Up Guardian with Airedale NHS Foundation Trust in Keighley, North East and Yorkshire, England. It is listed as a Band 6 role. The advertised salary is £39,959 - £48,117 pro rata per annum. The contract type is Permanent. The application deadline is 14 Jul 2026.
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