24 February 2010

(for immediate release)

MiP calls for a debate on regulating senior managers

MiP today called for a debate about regulating senior managers in the NHS but said regulation would not prevent scandals such as Mid Staffordshire. The union proposed boards should concentrate on better management.

Jon Restell, MiP chief executive said:

'The jury is still out on how formal regulation would work and how well it would support high standards in healthcare management. Our members are in two minds. The department of health must allow time for a debate among managers and with the public about the pros and cons of such regulation. We need this debate now.

'On a day when we're looking at the terrible events at Mid Staffordshire, we must not sell the public the pup that regulation of managers would have prevented the failure of an organisation to give safe, effective and dignified care. Two regulators failed to make a difference here - and a third would have done no better.

'It would carry more punch if we made trust boards prioritise operational as well as strategic matters, do a better job of recruiting and managing senior executives, and support and develop the middle managers who are critical for getting quality in services.'

Note to editors

MiP is the trade union organisation for healthcare managers. It has over 5,500 members, including over 300 chief executives.

For further information contact:

Jon Restell, MiP chief executive on 07908 209484

Marisa Howes, MiP national officer, communications on 020 7551 1167, m.howes@miphealth.org.uk