Kingston Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has launched a review of its workforce culture, after a staff survey.

26 percent of Kingston Hospital staff who took the survey say they have been abused, harassment or bullied by other members of staff in 2017.

Another 31 percent say they were abused, harassment or bullied by staff, patients or relatives in the past year.

An investigator was hired last month to review the hospital’s workforce culture, particularly within its day stay unit and main theatres.

A report will be published mid December with the findings, and staff have been asked to “use this opportunity to speak up” in a letter dated November 22 and circulated to staff.

Members of staff will get a chance to meet with the investigator or provide written comments and for these testimonies to remain confidential.

Kelvin Cheatle, director of workforce at Kingston Hospital, said: “In response to our 2017/18 staff survey, the Trust have decided to take a zero tolerance stance on bullying and harassment across the organisation.

“We want our employees to feel valued and supported, and to be empowered and confident to raise any concerns they may have.

“To help support this endeavour we have taken the precautionary decision to hold an impartial investigation, with theatres being the initial focus.”

He added: “We are taking this opportunity to look at how we can improve the working environment for our theatre staff, equip our leaders with the necessary skills and tools to create a supportive and nurturing environment, and cascade any learnings to the rest of the organisation. Every member of staff is valuable to us.”