Introduction:

The USD Services Ltd is a dedicated provider of high-quality insourcing ultrasound services to the NHS. As an organisation committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability, we recognize the importance of providing a safe and confidential channel for reporting concerns related to misconduct or illegal activities within our operations. This Whistleblowing Policy is a fundamental component of our commitment to ethical and legal conduct.

Commitment to Transparency and Integrity

Our organisation's core values are centred around transparency and integrity. We are steadfast in our commitment to maintaining the highest ethical standards, and this policy serves as a critical avenue for employees, stakeholders, and the public to voice concerns about potential wrongdoing within our organization.

Communication Channels

We strongly encourage and support whistleblowers in coming forward to report concerns through our dedicated hotline at +447925417830 or by emailing uchenna.echefu@theusdservices.co.uk or admin@theusdservices.co.uk. These communication channels are designed to ensure direct access to our specialized team responsible for managing and addressing reports.

Dedicated Contact Person

To facilitate the whistleblowing process, Uchenna Echefu, our Execute Director and Contract Manager, has been appointed as the dedicated contact person. Uchenna is available to provide guidance and support throughout the whistleblowing process, ensuring that all concerns are handled efficiently, fairly, and confidentially.

Scope

This policy applies to all employees, including directors, contractors, Sonographers, Clinicians, and anyone associated with The USD Services Ltd. It is fully aligned with other company policies and complies with the provisions of the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998.

Reporting Process

We are committed to creating a culture where employees and stakeholders feel safe and empowered to report concerns related to wrongdoing. Reporting can be made to immediate supervisors or designated officials within the company. Importantly, we have established safeguards to ensure that no individual faces any form of reprisal for raising concerns in the public interest.

Confidentiality

We understand the critical importance of maintaining confidentiality in the whistleblowing process. Every effort will be made to protect the identity of whistleblowers, and we are prepared to accept anonymous reports. We acknowledge that anonymous reports may present challenges in terms of verification, but we are committed to addressing all reports with utmost seriousness.

Procedure for Making an Allegation

When making an allegation, whistleblowers should aim to provide comprehensive details, including personal and contact information, a clear background of the issue, and specific concerns. While it is not mandatory to provide proof, it is essential to present reasonable grounds for the allegations.

Action Upon Receipt of Allegation

Upon receiving an allegation, we will promptly record it and initiate an assessment of its validity and implications. Whistleblowers will be contacted through their preferred channel of communication, with utmost regard for confidentiality. We have established specific protocols for handling allegations involving financial irregularities, criminal offenses, or potential harm.

Timetable for Acknowledgment and Support

We are committed to acknowledging allegations within ten working days of their receipt. This acknowledgment will include details about the planned approach, estimated response times, and the support mechanisms available to whistleblowers throughout the process.

Responsibility and Monitoring

The responsibility for the operation of this policy lies with the associate director, Uchenna Echefu, and senior managers within the organization. They are tasked with ensuring that the policy is administered accurately and in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.

Monitoring and Reporting

To maintain transparency and accountability, we maintain a confidential Register of all whistleblowing cases. This register provides details of each case's specifics and is accessible only to senior management.

Annual Reporting

Annually, an extensive report summarizing the policy’s operation and details of whistleblowing allegations will be prepared by the associate director. This report, while maintaining confidentiality, serves to keep senior management and the Board of Trustees informed about the effectiveness of the policy.

Combating Modern Slavery

In addition to our commitment to transparency and ethical conduct, The USD Services Ltd is resolutely committed to combating modern slavery in all its forms. We encourage whistleblowers to report any concerns related to modern slavery within our operations or supply chains. We view this as an integral part of our responsibility as a healthcare provider and a commitment to the well-being of our society.

Conclusion

Our Whistleblowing Policy underscores our unwavering dedication to ethical conduct, transparency, and accountability. It creates a safe and confidential environment where concerns about serious wrongdoing can be reported without fear of reprisal, protecting both individual and public interests. Through this policy, we demonstrate our commitment to fostering a workplace culture that upholds the highest ethical standards, ensuring the well-being of our organization and the communities we serve.