Raising Concerns and Whistleblowing

One of the most consistently tested themes in SJT is the duty to raise concerns about unsafe practice, unprofessional behaviour, or risks to patient safety. This lesson provides a comprehensive guide to when, how, and to whom you should raise concerns — and what to do when the system does not respond.

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The Duty to Raise Concerns

Raising concerns is not optional. It is a professional obligation established by the GMC, the NHS Constitution, and employment law.

GMC Good Medical Practice, paragraph 25: "You must take prompt action if you think that patient safety, dignity, or comfort is being compromised."

Why This Duty Exists

Reason	Explanation
Patient safety	Unreported concerns can lead to preventable harm
System learning	Healthcare systems cannot improve without knowing where problems exist
Professional accountability	Everyone in the system shares responsibility for safety
Public trust	The public trusts that healthcare professionals will speak up about problems

What Happens When Concerns Are Not Raised