MP Calls For Bullying Investigation To Be Expanded Across Sussex Hospital Trust

(c) Josh Babarinde

An Eastbourne MP is calling for an investigation into claims of bullying, harassment and discrimination at an East Sussex hospital trust to be expanded.

East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust runs Eastbourne District General Hospital and Conquest Hospital in St Leonards.

An independent review was launched in January after concerns were raised about the culture and behaviour within the trust's general surgery department.

It found a "significant proportion" of staff had experienced bullying, harassment or discrimination in the previous year.

Eastbourne MP Josh Babarinde says the investigation may be too narrow, after several current and former members of staff contacted his office.

He's written to the trust's chief executive, Jayne Black, calling for the review to be reopened and its scope broadened across the trust.

He also wants a confidential process put in place for staff to raise concerns, as well as clarity on the support available to them.

The review found women, non-consultant medical staff and ethnic minority staff were among those experiencing the greatest harm.

The trust's chief medical officer, Dr Simon Merritt, says it has since "taken clear action", including providing dedicated support and confidential advice to staff within the team.

East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust has not yet responded to requests for comment.