This policy document for NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin ICB is derived from the Framework and supports the implementation of the recommendations from the Kark Review which was implemented in September 2023. The purpose of the Framework is to strengthen/ reinforce individual accountability and transparency for board members, thereby enhancing the quality of leadership within the NHS and will be used for all new board level appointments or promotions and for annual assessments going forward.

The policy supports transparency and should be the start of an ongoing dialogue between board members about probity and values. It should be seen as a core element of a broader programme of board development, effective appraisals and values-based (as well as competency-based) appointments – all of which are part of the good practice The aim of strengthening the FPPT is to prioritise patient safety and good leadership in NHS organisations. The policy will help board members build a portfolio to support and provide assurance that they are fit and proper.

Ensuring high standards of leadership in the NHS is crucial – well-led NHS organisations and better-led teams with both strong teamwork and strong governance translate into greater staff wellbeing and better clinical care. This requires accountable board members with both outstanding personal conduct and professional capabilities to effectively oversee NHS organisations that are often under significant financial restraint and operating in a highly regulated environment with public and political scrutiny.

All NHS organisations have been reminded of their obligations not to appoint any individual as a board director unless they fully satisfy all FPPT requirements – including that they have not been responsible for, been privy to, contributed to, or facilitated any serious misconduct or mismanagement (whether lawful or not), as a result of the Letby trial verdict.

A letter from NHS England outlining its commitment to do everything possible to prevent anything like this happening again and noting the decisive steps being taken towards strengthening patient safety monitoring can be found here:

https://www.england.nhs.uk/publication/verdict-in-the-trial-of-lucy-letby/

Ensuring that board members are demonstrating the right behaviours will help the NHS drive its cultural initiatives: namely, to foster a culture of compassion, respect and inclusion, and a feeling of belonging; as well as setting the tone at the top to encourage a listening and speaking up culture.

A copy of the FPPT Framework Policy can be found here.