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Wednesday, 24 April 2024

Saturday, 30 April 2005 10:02

BNN: British Nursing News Online · www.bnn-online.co.uk

Sex abuse at hospital

Lothian police are investigating claims that an elderly patient who is being cared for at Liberton hospital, Edinburgh was sexually abused.

NHS Lothian has suspended a male care assistant while detectives investigate the allegation. Karl Brodie, 41, made no plea when he appeared in private charged with assault at Edinburgh Sheriff court on Wednesday. He was bailed pending further reports.

The police were called in after a female stroke victim in her 80s claimed she was assaulted. Detectives then launched a major inquiry following concern that other patients may have been assaulted.

Staffs at the eight-ward hospital were informed of the investigation on Thursday 28th April 2005 as police were at the hospital interviewing vulnerable patients as part of the inquiry. They were all given letters warning they face the sack if details of the inquiry are leaked.

David Bolton, chief executive at NHS Lothian University Hospitals Division, said: "We all want to express our deep shock and regret over this distressing matter".

He said he wanted to reassure all patients and their relatives that staffs were working closely with the police in relation to the serious nature of the inquiry.

He confirmed there was a high-level investigation underway by NHS Lothian to determine what had happened and ensure patients were protected.

He added: "If anyone has any concerns or questions about a relative who is in the hospital please speak to the nurse in charge of the ward”.

The helpline number - 0131 242 7968 - will be staffed by nurses and will open from 9am to 9pm today and every following day until further notice.

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