A GP practice in Hertfordshire spoke out after hurtful comments about its staff members were posted on social media.
Red House Surgery in Radlett said that a number of comments received by their staff on social media could be seen as tantamount to bullying and wrote to its patients asking them to address concerns directly with the practice rather than in a public forum.
The practice said: “Our staff are working very hard and are doing a brilliant job in an increasingly stressful environment and difficult circumstances. We will have no hesitation taking legal advice if comments persist. We appreciate that the current state of the NHS causes huge amounts of anxiety and worry amongst patients, but we are doing the very best we can for all of our patients”.
Repeated posts and comments could be seen as tantamount to bullying and some of the comments could be considered as defamation of character. The posts could result in staff members leaving their roles due the stress and distress that they cause.
Dr Violaine Carpenter, a GP partner at the practice, said that many clinicians are facing burnout and that such bullying behaviour on social media could be the final straw for many.
“We are seeing an increasingly number of these social media posts which we feel are often misrepresentative of the facts. As they are posted on public forums we have no ability to respond with our version of the events.”
Source: Pulse Today
What do you need to do?
- Create or review your organisation’s social media policy
- Ensure measures are in place to address online abuse or threats
- Provide support to staff affected by these issues
Importance: For info
To discuss this issue or request any further assistance and support please contact: Jonathan Gladwin, Director of Anti-Crime Services; or your nominated Anti-Crime Specialist.