Story perspectives

NHS Sexual Safety Charter Fails to Protect Female Staff

1/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A strategy to combat sexual harassment in England's National Health Service (NHS) has not improved safety for female staff.
The NHS sexual safety charter, launched in September 2023, coincides with calls to Rights of Women charity.
NHS trusts report low incident numbers, raising concerns about underreporting, according to healthcare unions.
The Royal College of Nursing, the British Medical Association, and the Department of Health seek stronger enforcement and clearer reporting.

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Story summary

A strategy to combat sexual harassment in England's National Health Service (NHS) has not improved safety for female staff.
The NHS sexual safety charter, launched in September 2023, coincides with calls to Rights of Women charity.
NHS trusts report low incident numbers, raising concerns about underreporting, according to healthcare unions.
The Royal College of Nursing, the British Medical Association, and the Department of Health seek stronger enforcement and clearer reporting.