The scheme supports individuals who, following a formal speaking up process, have experienced significant adverse impact, leading to difficulties moving forward in both their professional and personal lives.

The scheme, formerly known as the Whistleblowers Support Scheme was created in 2019 as a response to the recommendations from the 2015 Freedom to speak up review. It been revised based on learning from the previous iterations of the support scheme. It enables NHS workers, past and present, who meet the eligibility criteria, to access a structured programme of support.