East of England Ambulance Service moved out of ‘special measures’

East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST) has been removed from special measures following significant improvements.

EEAST was first placed into the National Recovery Support Programme for challenged providers and systems (formerly known as ‘special measures’) in 2020 due to concerns around its leadership and culture.

The move followed a damning report by the health watchdog, The Care Quality Commission (CQC), which revealed sexual abuse, inappropriate behaviour and harassment.

But on Tuesday NHS England recognised the significant improvements that EEAST has made, including efforts to improve the handling of allegations “after processes were strengthened and standardised”, as well as expanding its safeguarding team.

NHS England has now confirmed EEAST will leave the Recovery Support Programme with immediate effect.

[Related reading: Excelerate’s Hybrid Connex pilot for EEAST shows positive early results]

‘Major milestone’

Tom Abell, Chief Executive, said, “This is a major milestone for EEAST, and it’s all down to the hard work and commitment of our people.”

“We have made much progress since I joined the Trust over two years ago. When I joined, I made clear it would take time to tackle longstanding cultural and organisational issues.

Although we have made good progress, we know there is still work to do to provide consistently excellent service to our communities.”

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