We share a common purpose with our partners in health and social care – and that is to provide high quality care and ensure the best possible outcomes for the people who use our services. Promoting improvement is at the heart of what we do.

We endeavour to provide a first class service at all times but sometimes things go wrong and our service may fall below our expected levels.

In order to comply with Regulation 20 of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulations 2014) we pledge to:

• Have a culture of openness and honesty at all levels

• Inform patients in a timely manner when safety incidents have occurred which may affect them

• Provide a written and truthful account of the incident, explaining any investigations and enquiries made

• Provide a written apology

• Provide support if you are affected directly by an incident.

The duty of candour: what it means for patients and their families