Bribery - the Trust’s position
We are committed to applying the highest standards of ethical conduct and integrity and to delivering the highest standards of patient care; this means being focused on safeguarding the funds needed for this.
Bribery is defined within the Bribery Act 2010 as the giving or receiving of a financial or other advantage in exchange for improperly performing a relevant function or activity.
Under no circumstances is the giving, offering, receiving or soliciting of a bribe acceptable and we will not tolerate this in any form. This applies to all staff, volunteers and non-executives, together with any external agents working or acting on our behalf.
Our zero tolerance approach to bribery, and commitment to the Bribery Act 2010, is set out in further detail within the Anti-Fraud and Bribery Policy, and across a range of other Trust policies and procedural documentation. All staff and volunteers, non-executives and other relevant parties are responsible for familiarising themselves with the requirements surrounding this and for complying with these at all times.
Any instances of non-compliance will be dealt with firmly and, in addition to possible internal disciplinary action, it is noted that a criminal offence under the Bribery Act 2010 could lead to up to 10 years imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine.
With regard to external parties, we will not do business with anyone who does not support our anti-bribery commitments, and we reserve the right to terminate any contracts where there is evidence that acts of bribery have been committed.
If you are in any doubt as to whether any conduct could amount to bribery, or if you have any concerns or suspicions regarding bribery being committed, please refer to the contact details within our Anti-Fraud and Bribery policy, or the Whistleblowing policy. Such a response is critical to the success of our anti-bribery measures and we will support anyone raising an issue who is acting in good faith.
Alice Webster
Chief Executive Officer