NHS Highland apologises after Sturrock Review into alleged bullying published; vow "lessons will be learned"
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
NHS Highland chiefs have apologised following the publication of a report into alleged bullying at the health board – and vowed that "lessons will be learned".
They voiced a commitment to draw up an action plan to tackle any recommended changes.
Senior board members were speaking after the publication of the Sturrock Review looking into the allegations.
They stressed that they "will not tolerate unacceptable behaviour under any circumstances".
Chief executive Iain Stewart said: “Already, it seems clear that the treatment of some staff within NHS Highland in the past has not always lived up to the high standards expected and, for that, I apologise on behalf of the board. Once I have fully read and considered the report, I will have more to say about this.”
“Clearly there is a lot in the report to consider and, over the coming days, the contents will be carefully studied and an action plan drawn up.
“I can assure you all that the response will itself be comprehensive and, over the coming weeks and months, NHS Highland will take whatever actions are required to ensure that its people are valued, respected and that their voices are heard."
Professor Boyd Robertson, the interim chair of NHS Highland added: “The report presents an ideal opportunity for everyone in NHS Highland to take stock of what more can be done to foster a positive and inclusive culture. Our board will give early consideration to the findings of this report and will ensure that its recommendations are taken forward.
“As chair of the Board, I undertake to do whatever I can to restore confidence where it may have been lost and to build upon the many examples of best practice which I see every day. Together, I am confident that we can make sure that all of our people feel valued, respected and proud to be part of NHS Highland.”
As well as the Sturrock Review, NHS Highland had also commissioned its own "independent review into organisational development". It added that a separate audit on the culture within NHS Highland was also undertaken and that the recommendations from both of these reviews will be incorporated into the action plan.
