Concern over SHOT and UKTLC survey

Findings from the 2023 SHOT and UKTLC Transfusion Laboratory Culture Survey have revealed a need for improvement in the safety culture of UK transfusion laboratories.

The comprehensive assessment of staff experiences and perceptions highlights a lack of psychological safety, where concerns often go unaddressed from the perspective of the respondents. Additionally, a significant proportion of staff report experiencing various forms of incivility.

IBMS President Joanna Andrew commented:

“The 2023 SHOT and UKTLC laboratory culture survey reveals a concerning situation. It suggests that transfusion laboratory staff across the UK report feeling psychologically unsafe, with issues sometimes ignored and a degree of incivility present. This culture requires attention. Organisations must encourage a culture and have a clear strategy to listen to staff, support them, and actively work to create safe, positive work environments. This isn’t just about staff wellbeing – it’s about ensuring the highest quality care for patients.”

Some of the report’s key findings include:

• Nearly 1 in 5 lab staff feel psychologically unsafe, with concerns frequently unaddressed.
• Almost half face incivility (belittling, blaming, shouting, false accusations).
• This poor culture negatively impacts staff health and home life.
• In some circumstances, incident reporting is compromised by pressure to downplay severity and fear of reprisal.

The IBMS supports the report’s recommendations. Organisations must:

• Implement clear procedures for hearing, addressing, and supporting staff who raise concerns.
• Establish regular communication (mentoring, 1:1 meetings) to ensure a positive culture, supporting retention, and avenues for raising concerns.
• Train all staff on recognising and preventing incivility/bullying and provide support mechanisms for those affected.

IBMS members who may be affected by the report are reminded of the following benefits via MyIBMS (login required):

Wellbeing Support Services (via IBMS Additions)
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