Sector-specific implications
Healthcare Trusts and NHS Bodies
- Enhanced candour obligations building on existing NHS duty of candour
- Particular focus on patient safety incidents and serious untoward events
- Integration with clinical governance frameworks required
Police Forces and Emergency Services
- Lessons from Hillsborough directly incorporated
- Immediate disclosure obligations during major incident investigations
- Enhanced scrutiny of statements and evidence handling
Local Authorities
- Wide application across all public functions
- Particular relevance for housing, social services, and public safety
- Integration with existing complaint procedures
Private Sector Contractors
- Duties apply to organisations delivering public functions
- Health and safety responsibilities specifically included
- Contract terms may need revision to reflect new obligations
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This advisory is based on the current provisions of the Public Office (Accountability) Bill and associated guidance. Clients should seek specific legal advice on how these provisions may apply to their particular circumstances.