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PCC
PCC
FREEPHONE.: 0800 917 0222
FREEPHONE: 0800 917 0222

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PCC Statement: Independent inspection report of the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust’s Cardiac Surgery Unit

The Patient and Client Council (PCC) is very concerned by the findings of the recent independent inspection report of the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust’s Cardiac Surgery Unit.

Commenting on the finding referring to the ‘significant risk to patient safety’, Katherine McElroy, PCC Principal Practitioner for Advocacy said:

“We know that the culture of organisations and teams has a significant impact on patient safety and patient experience. Numerous public inquiries and investigations have illustrated what can happen when clinicians and staff stop treating each other and their patients with respect and due care.

“Whilst the PCC has not seen a copy of the report, initial information in the public domain is extremely concerning. It illustrates the importance of the Department of Health’s work on developing an open and honest culture in Health and Social Care and it demonstrates clearly the important role of meaningful oversight and governance. The voice and experience of patients and the public is extremely important in all of this and should be a core part of how the Belfast Trust and the Department of Health react to this report.  

“We extend our thoughts and support to the patients and families who may be affected by the issues raised in this report. Every patient has the right to safe, high-quality care delivered in a respectful and professional environment.

“The PCC offers independent advocacy support , which can include complaints and SAI processes. The service is independent, confidential and free to use. Our team of trained practitioners can advocate for patients involved by engaging with the Belfast Trust and the Department of Health to ensure that any concerns are not only heard but acted upon with urgency and transparency.

“Our offices are open Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays) and we operate a freephone service 0800 917 0222 from 9am – 4pm. Alternatively, contact can be made via email to info@pcc-ni.net via our online contact form or by post; Freepost, Patient and Client Council.”

The PCC acknowledges that the Belfast Trust has accepted the recommendations of the inspection report and that they are working to take these forward.



Tags: PCC NEWS By PCC at 05/29/2025

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