We’re Now Cyber Essentials Plus Certified

We’re excited to share some brilliant news: We have have officially achieved Cyber Essentials Plus, the highest level of the UK Government‑backed cyber security standard, and one that is fully recognised by the NHS.

If you’re not someone who lives in the world of firewalls, audits, or IT jargon (lucky you!), here’s what that actually means.

So… what is Cyber Essentials Plus?

Cyber Essentials Plus is basically a health check for all the technology we use across our organisation from laptops, phones, networks, software, the lot. But instead of just ticking boxes, independent experts actually tested our systems to make sure they can stand up to real cyber threats.

Think of it like a Car MOT for our digital world except a bit stricter, and with far fewer oily hands.

Why this is a big deal

Cyber attacks are becoming more common, especially in healthcare, where keeping information safe is absolutely essential. Achieving Cyber Essentials Plus means:

1. Your data is safer
   Patient and client information is protected by strong, proven security measures.
2. Partners including the NHS can trust us even more.
   This certification is recognised across the NHS, helping strengthen confidence in how we manage sensitive information.
3. Our systems are secure by design.
   Things like firewalls, access controls, device protection, and software updates were all checked, tested, and verified.
4. Our teams benefit too.
   A safer, more reliable digital environment means fewer issues, fewer risks, and smoother everyday operations.

What did we actually do to get this?

A lot of behind‑the‑scenes work went into reaching this point, including:

• Cleaning up old devices and making sure everything is properly protected
• Improving how we secure and configure systems
• Tightening access to make sure only the right people can use the right data
• Ensuring updates, patches and security tools are always in place
• Working closely with our managed service provider to fix anything that wasn’t up to scratch

It wasn’t always glamorous! Some of it involved chasing devices that hadn’t checked in for months but it was all worth it.

This achievement reflects our values

Earning Cyber Essentials Plus genuinely showcases who we are as a group:

• We take pride in doing things properly
• We protect the people who rely on us
• We work together to solve problems
• We aim to exceed expectations
• We learn, adapt and improve continuously

Cyber security might sound technical, but at its heart, it’s about people, keeping them safe, supported, and confident in the services we provide.

A huge thank you

A massive thank you to everyone who supported the audit and got us over the line. Your quick actions, teamwork and willingness to adapt made this possible.

And a special shoutout to our managed service provider, ION, for going above and beyond and working so closely with our internal team through every step.

We’re incredibly proud of this milestone and even more excited about what it enables us to do next.

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Michael Shreeves, Head of IT