Practices are being encouraged to adopt a new “sexual safety” charter launched by NHS England.

The charter pledges a “zero tolerance” approach to sexual harassment. NHS trusts and practices will be expected to sign up to the new sexual safety charter by July next year – while local integrated care board will be expected to appoint a lead officer for domestic abuse and sexual violence. Under the new charter, employers will pledge to take “appropriate and timely” action on allegations, taking all reports “seriously”. There would also be a responsibility on staff to report and take action if they witness inappropriate behaviour.

The charter has so far been agreed by NHS England, NHS Employers, the Royal College of GPs and the Royal College of Anaesthetists.

Dr Binta Sultan, chair of the NHS England national clinical network of sexual assault and abuse services, said: “This charter is the start of an important journey to wipe out unwanted, inappropriate and harmful sexual behaviour in healthcare environments, making them safe for all staff and patients and, while this can be a difficult subject for some, we are extremely grateful to everyone who speaks up against abuse so we can stamp it out. Signing up to this charter shows how committed NHS England and other healthcare organisations are to supporting those under their responsibility, where leaders will be supported to take charge and act upon signs of abuse, signposting to the appropriate support networks.”

Professor Kamila Hawthorne, Chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners said: “We unequivocally support this vital charter. It is critical that all branches of our health service take every necessary measure to safeguard against any forms of sexism, sexual harassment or assault. Everyone should be able to do their job to the best of their ability without fear or threat of abuse and we must ensure that staff are supported at all times. This codified charter commits all participating organisations to vigilance of inappropriate behaviour and will ensure that the safety of our staff is a top priority across the NHS”.