Case Study: Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals achieves better patient care and staff engagement with NHS Employers

Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals - Customer Case Study

Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals NHS Trust, a district general hospital, faced significant quality concerns that led to it being placed into special measures in 2012. To improve patient care and meet stakeholder expectations, the trust partnered with NHS Employers on a major change program. This initiative aimed to empower staff and embed sustainable improvements in patient safety and quality.

NHS Employers supported the trust by implementing a comprehensive communications and engagement strategy, the centerpiece of which was the introduction of daily "stepping up" meetings. This initiative, alongside other forums and leadership programs, empowered staff to raise concerns and take responsibility for change. As a result of the work with NHS Employers, the trust successfully exited special measures and was rated "Good" by the Care Quality Commission within two years, with notable improvements in staff engagement, quality metrics, and a reduction in mortality rates.

Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals