Lincolnshire Charity Staff Report Suicidal Feelings Amid Toxic Work Environment

Several current and former staff members of the LIVES charity in Lincolnshire, UK, have reported a toxic work environment, with allegations of bullying, belittling, and high staff turnover. Three employees said they considered suicide due to the work culture at the medical charity.

The charity has been described as having a culture of bullying and belittling staff. Former finance officer Andy Bateman called it "the most caustic place" he ever worked, with high staff turnover and low morale. Eleven people believe they or their colleagues were targeted after whistleblowing about patient safety or raising concerns about management decisions.

LIVES denies the allegations, stating that disciplinary proceedings were carried out properly and that staff mental health issues often predated their employment. However, a Care Quality Commission report found that some staff felt unable to report incidents of bullying and shouting from senior leaders.

The charity has also seen a decline in volunteer responders and emergency call-outs, which staff attribute to high levels of sickness, disciplinary suspensions, and resignations. The charity says the decline is due to various factors, including staffing issues and a new triage system. Despite receiving significant funding, the charity has been accused of not fully staffing its emergency vehicles.

Why this matters: The allegations of a toxic work environment at LIVES raise serious concerns about the well-being of staff and the potential impact on the quality of care provided by the charity. As a medical organization, it is critical for LIVES to address these issues and ensure a healthy and supportive work culture for its employees and volunteers.

The Charity Commission is aware of the potential concerns and is assessing the information. LIVES maintains that disciplinary procedures were carried out appropriately and that employees' mental health issues often predated their employment. However, the Care Quality Commission's findings and the accounts of numerous current and former staff members suggest a need for further investigation and action to address the reported issues within the charity.

Key Takeaways

• Allegations of toxic work culture, bullying, and high staff turnover at LIVES charity
• 3 employees considered suicide due to work culture, 11 felt targeted after whistleblowing
• CQC report found staff felt unable to report incidents of bullying and shouting
• Decline in volunteer responders and emergency call-outs attributed to staffing issues
• Charity Commission assessing information, LIVES denies allegations but issues persist