NCIC’s introduction to ‘Martha’s Rule’
We are pleased to announce that Martha’s Rule, known as Call for Concern is now in place across all adult and children’s wards on our acute hospital sites.
Call for Concern gives patients, families, and carers the right to request an urgent review if they are worried that a patient’s condition is getting worse. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and connects directly with our experienced critical care outreach teams.
This important safety initiative ensures that concerns are heard, taken seriously, and acted upon quickly. It forms part of our ongoing commitment to providing safe, responsive, and high‑quality care for every patient.
If you would like to learn more about how Martha’s Rule works or how to use Call for Concern, please speak to a member of staff on the ward.
What is the process?
The team will take some details regarding who the patient is and the nature of the call.
They will then visit the ward, review the notes, assess the patient and liaise with the ward team. Documentation will be made in the patient’s notes detailing the findings and action taken and fed back to the concerned caller.
Contact The Critical Care Outreach Team for help:
Cumberland Infirmary: 07769 248 453
West Cumberland Hospital: 07827 983 964
**Please note: Whilst we aim to answer your call immediately, if we are busy, please leave a message and we will call you back.
*Please don’t call this number if you have issues with food, parking, the ward or the hospital facilities. You can raise these with ward staff or contact Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS).
Our on-site Patient Advice and Liaison Service:
PALS@ncic.nhs.uk 01228 814 008 | 01946 523 818