Bullying And Harassment In The NHS

The Employment Tribunal has found that GMB member Jeff Williams had been unfairly dismissed from his job as Deputy Transport Manager by Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.

Mr Williams had worked for the Trust for 22 years and had an unblemished work record. He had successfully pursued a civil case against the Trust in 2002, following persistent bullying & harassment by colleagues.  However, the harassment continued.

Mr Williams was dismissed from his job in April 2004 for alleged gross misconduct. However, at an Employment Tribunal hearing in March 2005, it was found that evidence was ignored during the investigatory process. The tribunal also found that the disciplinary hearing, at which Mr Williams was dismissed, was procedurally flawed.  Similar claims have also been made in relation to Mr Williams' appeal hearing.

Mr Williams and his family have suffered significantly as a result of his dismissal.  Mr William's health has suffered and his family have had to watch helplessly while he was treated so badly by Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.

Joan Keane, GMB Regional Organiser, said:

"Whilst Mr Williams is relieved that the matter is now concluded, he has endured years of bullying and harassment by his colleagues and paid the ultimate price for expecting his employers to ensure that this unacceptable treatment should not be tolerated.  It is hoped that GMB members employed in the NHS will in future be treated with the respect and dignity that they deserve."

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Contact: Joan Keane, GMB Senior Organiser on 07958 156841, Rose Conroy, GMB Press Officer on 07974 251823 or Becky Darke, GMB Press Assistant on 07817 957628