But this report, commissioned by NHS England in June 2025, after the trust itself requested it, tells a different story.
It highlighted a “dysfunctional” relationship between board leaders leading to a “divisive and toxic culture” which was “significantly affecting staff well-being”.
Some of those staff were described as “fearful, anxious, and unable to speak openly”, while a staff survey carried out for the review revealed low morale with some describing the organisation as “toxic, anxious, divisive and fearful”.
The report added that the focus on internal politics “is seen to detract from patient care, operational performance, and staff wellbeing”.
Merseycare Foundation Trust itself asked NHS England to commission this report, which came out last November and was never made public.
Eight months on from the original findings, the trust says much has changed, including some changes at board level.
A spokesperson said they “acted swiftly to strengthen Board arrangements, enhance governance and decision-making and further embed the leadership behaviours and standards expected across the organisation”.
They added: “Our senior leadership team is consistently engaging with staff through visible leadership, listening events, staff forums and open dialogue. This feedback is directly informing our improvement programme, with a continued focus on ensuring colleagues feel safe to speak up, know they are listened to and are treated with dignity and respect.”
“Our focus remains on maintaining the highest standards of care, supporting our people and building an organisation that continues to learn, improve and deliver outstanding services.”