A new method to deliver compensation to victims of the NHS Highland bullying scandal has been agreed after Health Secretary Jeane Freeman met whistleblowers yesterday.
Despite cancelling her meeting with the NHS Highland board to return to Edinburgh to deal with issues relating to the coronavirus outbreak, Ms Freeman met whistleblowers at Assynt House in Inverness in the morning.
The group raised concerns with Ms Freeman relating to the pace of implementation of a QC led independent inquiry’s findings, as well as seeking independent psychological help for victims.
They also raised concerns over the methods by which victims were being told they would have to seek compensation, which was largely through employment tribunals, putting great strain on victims financially and emotionally.
However, a new method of seeking compensation has been agreed, with final details still to be confirmed.
Dr Iain Kennedy, one of those who met Ms Freeman and NHS Scotland General Director Malcolm Wright, hailed the talks as “extremely positive”.
He said the group have reaffirmed that victims need a “bespoke and personal approach”.
Dr Kennedy added: “We don’t believe board members have developed insight into their failure to take action, and the slow pace of change would rather confirm this.”
A Scottish Government spokesman said Ms Freeman expects NHS Highland to consider all the issues raised by current and former employees, and that these must be done on a “case-by-case basis, with the principles of fairness, kindness and compassion underpinning the whole process”.
A follow-up meeting will take place next month.
