BU expert speaks to the BBC about The Francis Report

Professor Keith Brown, Director of Bournemouth University’s Centre for Post Qualifying Social Work, appeared live on two BBC radio stations to offer his views following the release of The Francis Report into failings within the NHS, particularly at Mid–Staffordshire Hospital.

Firstly, Keith spoke to Steve Harris on BBC Radio Solent where he responded to the initial reaction to the report and helped to unpack its key features. Keith told listeners, “The Francis Report is not looking for structural changes but is saying ‘we need to change our culture’… It [The Francis Report] is seminal for the NHS. It affects every one of us.”

Keith continued, “The training is there but staff on the wards need to develop resilience and self–leadership.”

Following his discussion on BBC Radio Solent, Keith spoke on Radio 5 Live’s Drivetime show, concluding the show’s discussion on the Francis Report by saying, “We need to change the culture through leadership development through health and social care.”

Keith concluded, “We need buy in from top management. There is too much evidence of people afraid to speak up. We need to change that culture.”

To hear Keith’s appearance on Radio 5 Live you can review the show on the BBC website.