Digitising the Freedom to Speak Up (FTSU) process at Alder Hey
Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust is leading the way in supporting staff to speak up safely and confidently by developing a bespoke digital case management platform for the Freedom to Speak Up (FTSU) service.
Staff at Alder Hey previously relied on email, phone calls, or a manual spreadsheet to raise and manage concerns. The system was secure but time-consuming, difficult to track, and offered limited anonymity. Without a structured digital tool, managing cases and reporting to national bodies was complex and inconsistent.
Breaking Barriers to Speaking Up
Staff at Alder Hey previously relied on email, phone calls, or a manual spreadsheet to raise and manage concerns. The system was secure but time-consuming, difficult to track, and offered limited anonymity. Without a structured digital tool, managing cases and reporting to national bodies was complex and inconsistent.
The Innovation Team at Alder Hey partnered with the FTSU Guardian to design a user-friendly, secure digital app that streamlines the entire FTSU process—from concern submission through to post-closure follow-up.
Key features include:
- Anonymous and named reporting options
- Automated workflows for case management and escalation
- Action planning and documentation of learning
- Scheduled follow-ups at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months
- Accessible design for all staff, including those with disabilities or from underrepresented communities
- Dashboard for reporting and exporting anonymised data
Shaping the Future of Speaking Up in the NHS
The app doesn’t just make things easier—it makes them better. It:
- Saves valuable time for the FTSU Guardian
- Ensures no case is missed or delayed
- Builds trust with transparent processes
- Supports the national FTSU mission with standardised reporting
- Strengthens a culture of safety and inclusion