Health and care sector latest developments

NHS has no deadline to bring in new rules on single-sex spaces

The Times has reported that the NHS has not set out a timeline for implementing new guidance on single-sex spaces.

Current rules allow trans patients to be treated in the ward of their choosing, rather than that of their biological sex.

New national guidance from the Equality and Human Rights Commission came into force on Wednesday. NHS England said that new policies and guidance on single-sex spaces would be published “shortly”. Some campaigners said the delay was insulting to patients.

Nurses being ‘exploited’ in social care, experts warn

A new report by the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has warned that nurses are being ‘exploited’ in the social care sector. ITV News highlighted how the report warns of migrant workers who are being underpaid or having their visa status used as leverage to demand ‘huge’ repayments.

The report’s publication follows Andy Burnham’s pledge to address adult social care, with the RCN’s chief executive warning the report “exposes the scale of grotesque exploitation taking place in the sector”.

Trust identifies ‘power imbalances’ after sexual misconduct sackings

An ambulance trust is to strengthen safeguarding for students after sacking two senior staff for sexual misconduct and identifying “inherent power imbalances” that put learners at risk.

Both had roles at South East Coast Ambulance Service Foundation Trust that brought them into contact with student paramedics, and were dismissed after concerns were raised late last year, it has emerged.

The Health Service Journal understands this was among the issues that led to the trust commissioning an independent culture review in January.

The review does not refer to sexual misconduct. But a summary of the findings, published in papers for the trust’s board meeting yesterday (Thursday), says the review ‘highlighted particular risks where there are inherent power imbalances, especially in relation to students and individuals early in their careers’.

Candidates for £342,000 DHSC job to face mock PAC

Candidates for a readvertised post in the Department of Health and Social Care’s executive team, with pay up to £342,000, have been advised to expect a mock public accounts committee grilling.

Shortlisted candidates for the director general for commercial and growth position will face a series of assessments that 'may include' a 'mock public accounts committee' hearing, according to the candidate pack published last month.

The House of Commons Public Accounts Committee (PAC) is responsible for holding government and public services to account, often scrutinising wasteful departmental spending.