Freedom to speak up in healthcare in England
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National Guardian key resources's

This section provides the practical tools, guidance, and development resources needed to support the Freedom to Speak Up Guardian role.


You will engage with key documents such as the Guardian Handbook, National Speak Up Policy, and training materials that outline how to support workers, handle concerns, and promote a positive speaking up culture. The resources also explore the balance between reactive casework and proactive cultural improvement, alongside leadership responsibilities and organisational expectations.
Additional tools, reflection resources, and ongoing learning opportunities (including webinars and development guides) will support your continuous professional development as a Guardian.

By working through this section, you will:

Understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Guardian role
Develop practical skills to support individuals who speak up
Apply national policy and guidance to real-world situations
Reflect on and strengthen speaking up culture within your organisation

Guardian training workbook

Recruitment framework

Starting out and stepping down

Detriment guidance

Champion guidance

Champions animation

Guardian Handbook

Guardian role: Reactive & Proactive

The national Speak Up Policy

Freedom to Speak Up: A guide for leaders in the NHS and organisations delivering NHS services

Freedom to Speak Up: A reflection & Planning Tool

NHS England Freedom to Speak Up webpage

Freedom to Speak Up Guardian Development Guide

Lunch & Learn webinars

Top tips for supporting individuals who speak up

NHS Support

Guardian Journey

Freedom to Speak Up: The Role of Non-Executive Directors in Creating a Safe Speaking-Up Culture