Landmark NHS leadership and management framework launches – setting clear standards for every leader and manager

The Faculty of Medical Leadership and Management (FMLM) welcomes the launch of the NHS Leadership and Management Framework – a landmark national initiative establishing, for the first time, a clear and consistent approach to leadership and management across every level of the NHS.

Launched by NHS England alongside the publication of the new NHS Staff Standards by the Department of Health and Social Care, the Framework introduces a code of practice, leadership and management standards, and defined competencies for all NHS leaders and managers.

FMLM has been a key partner in shaping the Framework, working alongside NHS England, the Chartered Management Institute and the Florence Nightingale Foundation.

Developed with input from thousands of NHS leaders, managers and patient representatives, the Framework has also been tested with more than 150 NHS organisations – including trusts across all seven NHS regions, ambulance services, integrated care boards and NHS England teams.

From leadership aspiration to leadership expectation

The new Framework marks a significant shift in the NHS approach to leadership and management: from variable expectations and development opportunities to a clear, shared national standard.

Professor Rich Withnall, FMLM Chief Executive Officer, said:

“This is a hugely important moment for the NHS.

“Excellent leadership cannot be left to chance.  The quality of leadership and management has a direct impact on staff experience, organisational culture and, ultimately, the care we provide to patients.

“For the first time, leaders and managers across the NHS have a clear and consistent articulation of what good leadership looks like – and what should be expected of them at every stage of their career.

“FMLM is proud to have helped shape this Framework. Our focus now must be on turning these standards into meaningful development, better leadership behaviours and measurable improvements for NHS staff and patients.”

Supporting leaders to develop – at every stage

FMLM believes the launch represents an important opportunity to strengthen leadership and management capability across the NHS and to ensure that leadership and management development is consistent, evidence-informed and embedded throughout healthcare careers.

Dame Celia Ingham Clark, FMLM Chair, observed:

“I am delighted that FMLM was at the centre of this important work and thank NHS England and the consortium for their diligence and collaboration.  But publishing a framework is just the starting point – not the destination.

“The real test is now for the System to use the Framework to create the conditions in which leaders and managers can reflect honestly, develop continuously and be held to consistently high standards.

“FMLM looks forward to continuing to work with NHS partners to support implementation and supporting the new NHS College of Leadership and Management to champion excellent leadership and management wherever it occurs.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

About the Faculty of Medical Leadership and Management

The Faculty of Medical Leadership and Management (FMLM) is the UK professional home for clinical leadership. FMLM works to improve patient care and health outcomes by advancing excellence in medical leadership, management and healthcare improvement.

FMLM develops professional standards, supports leadership development and works with healthcare organisations, policymakers and clinical leaders across the UK to strengthen leadership capability.

Media enquiries:  enquiries@fmlm.ac.uk 

Further information:  https://www.fmlm.ac.uk/ 

NHS staff standards: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/nhs-sets-first-ever-staff-standards-to-tackle-racism-and-violence