THE Horton Treatment Centre in Banbury has launched a new campaign encouraging staff to challenge colleagues and managers who may be putting patients at risk with their behaviour.

Ramsay Health Care UK, who run the hospital in Oxford Rd, says the Speaking Up for Safety (SUFS) programme reinforces the company's commitment to providing outstanding healthcare and safeguarding patients.

Elements of the scheme include graded assertiveness training for all staff and a feedback platform for staff to report both positive and negative experiences.

The programme will also ensure high professional standards are maintained throughout the organisation, according to hospital bosses.

CEO, Ramsay Health Care UK Dr Andy Jones, said: "We are thrilled to be leading the way in the UK as the first hospital group to introduce the programme and are proud to have an excellent team supporting the initiative.

"We are committed to providing the highest levels of safety across the hospitals and protecting our patients and staff to the greatest standard."

Ramsay Health Care UK, in partnership with the Cognitive Institute, are the first hospital group in the UK to launch the initiative.

The private treatment centre was rated 'good' overall following its last inspection by the Care Quality Commission.

However, the health watchdog criticised the hospital's infection control processes rating it as 'requires improvement' for safety.

Thirty three Ramsay Health Care hospitals across the UK will be taking part in the programme.