Media statement following extraordinary board meeting on Friday 31 January 2014

Published: 31 January 2014

The board of South Devon Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust today held an extraordinary meeting in private to consider the findings of the recent employment tribunal brought by Ms Sardari and Mrs Gates.

After the meeting had concluded, Acting Chairman, Topsy Murray made the following statement on behalf of the Trust Board:

“The issues raised by the employment tribunal panel are extremely serious, relating as they do to the behaviour of individuals in relation to a whistleblowing case. Our former Chairman has already stepped down and apologised for any actions, including his own, which have led to this situation.

“The employment tribunal report raises a number of complex issues which the board needs to consider with the aid of further legal advice. For this reason, the board will reconvene on Wednesday 5 February and a further statement will be made after that meeting.

“I would like to reassure our patients that hospital services, patient care and safety are absolutely unaffected by this case.

“Our patients today are receiving the same degree of care, compassion and professionalism as they always have done. We are very proud of our reputation for excellence and innovation and wish to thank all our staff for their continued dedication and enthusiasm during these difficult times.”