We have prepared ‘Green Action Plans’ for the Group and the individual locations in accordance with the NHS Green Plan framework. The initiatives aimed at reducing our environmental impact and achieving Net Zero by 2040 are as follows:

Sustainable Travel & Logistics

We have introduced a cycle to work scheme to discourage use of vehicles. Our locations have secure storage spaces, and we have an interest free loan scheme for the purchase of bicycles.

We have installed audio visual conferencing facilities in some of our locations to make full use of online meetings thus reducing travel for large numbers of employees, and we aim to increase installations across the Group. 

Models of Care

Hurley Group was the vanguard for online consultations. It was clear after reviewing the elements of the average ‘in person’ consultation experience, and listening to our patients’ feedback, that many, if not most, consultations did not require the patient and clinician to be in the same room. As well as the improved convenience for the patients, we appreciated the reduction in transport would be of benefit to the environment. We are at the forefront of pioneering digital services to streamline our services and reduce environmental impact and consider every opportunity in line with our carbon reduction goals. 

Estates & Facilities

We have researched wholesalers and identified a number that are providing items produced from sustainable sources ensuring all wooden items have only been acquired in this way. Our policy on equipment and devices is to purchase quality with longer shelf lives and when replacement proves necessary to use one of the many recycling options rather than abandon to landfill. 

We repair and refurbish wherever possible and have contracts with companies to reupholster chairs and couches, service and repair fridges and other electrical goods, recycle toners etc. 

Using Resources Sustainably

We strike the balance between over ordering that can lead to discarding out of date items, and too frequent purchasing that increases the volume of vehicles needed to transport. Where possible bamboo products replace paper and reusable glass and metal replaces plastic. As with all purchasing, over procurement is discouraged. 

Food ordering and provision is kept to a minimum and only supplied for certain events. We consider ways to reduce overall food waste and ensure the provision of healthier, locally sourced fruit and vegetables where possible.

Energy; Managing Carbon & Greenhouse Gases

Both from an environmental and a financial perspective reducing the use of electricity, gas and water is a key aspiration. We have reviewed our energy use and will contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions in line with NHS targets. 

Keeping windows and doors closed when not needed for ventilation; having all equipment regularly serviced and replaced when no longer functioning at optimal performance and reminding staff regularly to maintain a steady temperature of between 23-25c are our watchword. Not having taps running unnecessarily, especially during hand washing, and reacting quickly when addressing blockages etc. also contributes to the overall reduction in carbon usage.

Hurley Group ensures that all our locations use water efficiently by measuring and monitoring its usage. We respond to any leaks quickly and aim to install Automated Meter Reading on our water meters where possible to monitor and capture consumption data. We are in the process of phasing out bottle fed water coolers for mains fed water coolers when possible.

We have installed segregated waste and recycling measures in all our sites.

Medicines

Our Green Team includes pharmacists keenly interested in the many aspects of medicines management that impact our carbon output. As well as working to address the use of those medicines with the highest environmental impact by replacing with suitable alternatives, the necessary reduction in all prescribing will be achieved by, improving compliance with greater patient involvement in their care, de-prescribing items no longer required and managing the volume of prescribing to reflect effective need. The latter action alone greatly reduces waste which impacts manufacturing, packaging, and transportation.

Workforce Health & Wellbeing

Hurley Group prioritises the health and wellbeing of its staff as it is fundamental to its ability to deliver its priorities and objectives. We aim to improve staff satisfaction levels, reduce sickness absence rates, and minimise work related stress. Staff are provided with specialist training, guidance, and expert advice in a wide range of health-related subjects, and we offer apprenticeship opportunities which contribute to social value in the areas we are located. We value and respect individuals, promoting diversity and inclusion and eliminating bullying and harassment towards staff and between our staff

Contractors

Whenever possible we ensure others involved in our services such as contractors share and apply our ethos. The companies supplying cleaning services have the same policy on use of chemical products, materials, and equipment. Other contractors such as builders, electricians or other tradespersons are also questioned on their protocols and the outcome can influence our decisions. 

Our Green Action plans are a high priority and woven into regular meetings and discussions as standing agenda items. We are committed to continuous improvement and implementation of the ongoing actions, which we will review regularly and report on annually to ensure the group’s achievement of Net Zero by 2040.

You can read our Environmental Sustainability policy here.