NHS Lothian Review finds toxic work environment

NHS Lothian has apologized to its staff at the maternity unit following an investigation that revealed a toxic work culture.

After whistleblowers raised concern about staff shortages, workplace relationships and patient safety, the health board commissioned a review by an independent consultant.

It concluded that “concerns over bullying and toxic work environments are widespread”.

It was also found that staff were “close to burning out” due to high workloads and insufficient staffing.

NHS Lothian announced that it would implement an improvement plan after an investigation in December 2024 confirmed or partially supported 17 safety concerns.

In September 2024, the death of a woman on the unit prompted a further investigation. However, staff members continued to express concerns over the workplace culture.

The review of the workplace found that there is a distrust between managers in maternity care and their staff, and just a little over a third said they feel unable to report unethical behavior.

The report found that the workplace environment was a major challenge, with staff shortages causing women to be delayed in receiving treatment.

The relationship between leaders and staff was strained. This led to problems such as bullying, stress, and poor wellbeing. Some employees have expressed frustration and unfair treatment.

The survey was completed by around half of the 1195 women’s service staff at NHS Lothian. Half of the 1,195 staff in women’s services at NHS Lothian responded to the survey.

Tom Power, Director of People and Culture at NHS Lothian said in a statement:

We commissioned the independent research to ensure that we got a comprehensive picture of what our teams have experienced in women’s service.

“I apologize to those who were let down by their employers and assure them that we will do our best to help them to continue doing the work they love.

I would like to assure women and their families of the high quality care they will receive from our dedicated and professional staff.

The health board is continuing to implement a program of improvements. This includes a plan to hire almost 30 new midwives, as well as other maternity personnel.

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