Accessing the Barts Health NHS Trust intranet is an essential daily task for thousands of healthcare professionals across London. Whether you are a clinician at St Bartholomew’s Hospital or administrative staff at Newham University Hospital, the intranet serves as your central hub for information. This portal, frequently referred to by staff as WeShare, hosts everything from clinical guidelines and HR policies to the latest internal news and staff benefits. Having a reliable way to log in ensures that you can perform your duties efficiently and stay connected with the wider Trust community.
For many employees, the intranet is the first thing they see when they start their shift. It provides immediate access to the Electronic Staff Record (ESR), email services, and departmental updates. Because the Trust operates across multiple sites, including The Royal London, Whipps Cross, and Mile End hospitals, the intranet acts as the digital glue that holds these diverse locations together. This guide will walk you through the various ways to access the system, whether you are on-site or working remotely.
How to Access the Intranet On-Site
If you are physically located at a Barts Health site, accessing the intranet is designed to be a seamless experience. The Trust’s internal network is configured to recognize authorized devices, allowing for quick entry into the WeShare portal. Most staff members find that the intranet is the default homepage on their workstations.
Using Trust-Networked Computers
When you log into a computer that is connected to the Barts Health network, you are usually granted automatic access to the intranet. Simply open your preferred web browser, such as Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome. In most cases, the WeShare home page will load automatically. If it does not, you can typically find a shortcut icon on the desktop or within the browser’s bookmarks toolbar.
Single Sign-On (SSO) Benefits
The Trust utilizes Single Sign-On technology to reduce the number of times you need to enter your credentials. Once you have logged into your Windows account on a Trust device, your identity is verified for many internal applications. This streamlined process saves time during busy shifts and allows you to focus more on patient care and less on navigating login screens.
Remote Access for Off-Site Staff
With the rise of flexible working and the need for staff to check information outside of traditional hospital settings, remote access has become increasingly important. Accessing the Barts Health intranet from home or a mobile device requires additional security measures to protect sensitive information.
Using the Citrix Gateway
The most common method for remote access is through the Citrix Gateway. This system creates a secure “tunnel” between your personal device and the Trust’s internal servers. To use this, you will generally need to have the Citrix Workspace app installed on your computer or tablet. Once installed, you can navigate to the Trust’s specific remote access URL and enter your standard login credentials.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Security is a top priority for the NHS, and Barts Health is no exception. When logging in remotely, you will likely be prompted for Multi-Factor Authentication. This usually involves receiving a code on your mobile phone or approving a notification via the Microsoft Authenticator app. It is highly recommended to set up your MFA preferences while you are still on-site to avoid any connection issues when you are working from home.
Understanding Your Login Credentials
Your login details for the intranet are typically the same as those used for your Trust email and computer login. Keeping these credentials secure is a fundamental part of your responsibility as an NHS employee. Your username is usually formatted based on your name or a specific staff ID number provided during your induction.
Password Management
To maintain high security standards, the Trust requires regular password updates. If your password is nearing its expiration date, you will usually receive a prompt when logging into a Trust computer. It is best to change it immediately to prevent being locked out of the system. Ensure your password meets the complexity requirements, including a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters.
Smartcard Access
In certain clinical areas, you may be required to use an NHS Smartcard to access specific systems via the intranet. While the general intranet pages may not always require a Smartcard, clinical applications like Cerner Millennium often do. Ensure your Smartcard is valid and that you know your PIN, as this is a separate credential from your standard network password.
Troubleshooting Common Login Issues
Even with a robust system, you may occasionally encounter difficulties when trying to reach the Barts Health intranet. Understanding how to resolve these common issues can save you a significant amount of frustration. Most problems are related to connectivity or incorrect credentials.
Forgotten Passwords or Locked Accounts
If you have entered the wrong password too many times, your account may be temporarily locked for security reasons. If this happens, you should wait a few minutes before trying again. If you have completely forgotten your password, look for a “Self-Service Password Reset” link on the login page. If that is unavailable, you will need to contact the ICT Service Desk for assistance.
Browser and Connection Problems
Sometimes the issue isn’t your password, but the browser you are using. If the intranet page isn’t loading correctly, try clearing your browser cache or switching to a different browser. If you are working remotely, ensure that your internet connection is stable. A weak Wi-Fi signal can often cause the Citrix session to drop or fail to initiate.
Finding Key Resources on the Intranet
Once you have successfully logged in, the Barts Health intranet offers a wealth of resources. Navigating the site effectively will help you find the information you need without wasting time. The homepage is designed to highlight the most important Trust-wide news and urgent alerts.
Searching for Policies and Guidelines
One of the most frequent uses of the intranet is to find clinical guidelines or HR policies. Use the search bar located at the top of the WeShare page for the best results. Try to use specific keywords like “Annual Leave Policy” or “Infection Control Guidelines” to narrow down the results. Many departments also have their own dedicated sub-pages where they host specialized documents.
Accessing Paystubs and HR Forms
The intranet provides a direct link to the Electronic Staff Record (ESR), where you can view your payslips, manage your personal information, and complete mandatory training. Look for the “Staff Systems” or “Quick Links” section on the intranet homepage to find the ESR portal. Accessing this through the intranet ensures you are using a secure and verified link.
Security Best Practices for Staff
As a user of the Barts Health intranet, you play a vital role in maintaining the security of the Trust’s digital environment. Cyber threats are a constant concern for healthcare providers, and following simple security protocols can make a big difference. Always remember that the information on the intranet is intended for internal use only.
Logging Out and Locking Screens
If you are using a shared computer in a ward or office, never leave your session unattended. Always log out of the intranet and lock your computer screen (Windows Key + L) when you step away. This prevents unauthorized individuals from accessing sensitive data under your profile. Similarly, if you are accessing the portal from a public place, be mindful of who might be looking at your screen.
Reporting Suspicious Activity
If you notice anything unusual while using the intranet, such as strange pop-ups or links that seem out of place, report it to the ICT security team immediately. Phishing attempts can sometimes target internal systems, and staying vigilant helps protect the entire organization. Never click on links in emails that ask for your intranet password unless you are certain of the source.
Conclusion
Navigating the Barts Health staff intranet is an integral part of being an effective member of the Trust. By understanding the different methods of access and knowing how to troubleshoot common hurdles, you can ensure that you always have the information you need at your fingertips. Whether you are checking your latest payslip or looking up a critical clinical protocol, the WeShare portal is there to support your professional journey.
Remember to keep your credentials secure and stay updated on the latest security protocols provided by the Trust. If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring our other articles on workplace productivity and digital tools to help you manage your professional life more effectively. Staying informed is the first step toward a smoother and more productive workday.