Guidance for colleagues regarding activities during the pre-election period

November 8, 2019

With the announcement of the general election, purdah (the period of time immediately before an election when specific restrictions apply to the public sector) is now in effect, which means that care must be taken around announcements and activities by public sector bodies which could influence or be seen to influence the election.

NHS employees are free to undertake political activism and public debate in a personal capacity. Colleagues should however ensure that the Trust is not involved or that an impression of Trust involvement in a campaign or political activity is not created.  Colleagues are not permitted to use any official premises, equipment or information they would only have access to through their work and which is not publically available. This includes photography of colleagues in Trust uniforms. If staff use social media in a professional capacity as a representative of the Trust they should be mindful of preserving neutrality.

If you would like any further information please contact the communications team on ext. 5303.