Beverley Baker
Freedom to Speak Up guardian, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust
Beverley is a registered nurse and Freedom to Speak Up Guardian at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, with over 42 years of NHS experience and more than 30 years in management and senior nursing leadership. She began her NHS career as a Healthcare Assistant before progressing through nurse training and advancing into clinical leadership roles, including Matron, prior to taking up her current position as a Freedom to Speak Up Guardian.
In her Guardian role, Beverley provides independent and confidential advice and support to colleagues who wish to raise concerns. She works to remove barriers to speaking up and promotes a culture of openness, psychological safety, learning and continuous improvement.
She collaborates with executive teams, staff networks and key stakeholders to identify themes emerging from staff concerns, influence organisational improvement and support the creation of safer, fairer and more inclusive working environments.
Beverley is also Co-chair of the Race Equality and Cultural Heritage Staff Network, where she champions anti-racism, lived experience, allyship and a sense of belonging for colleagues, particularly those from the Global Majority.
In addition, she has served as an RCN Steward, supporting members to understand their rights, access guidance and feel empowered to challenge unfairness in the workplace.
Her work is underpinned by authenticity, integrity, fairness, equity and inclusion, alongside a deep commitment to ensuring that colleagues are treated with dignity, respect and consistency.
Beverley's contributions to equality, diversity, patient care and staff support have been recognised through several awards, including the RCN Black History Month Outstanding Contributions Award.
She remains committed to driving meaningful cultural change, ensuring that all staff feel heard, valued and supported.

