Families affected by QEUH infection scandal blast NHS for spending thousands to coach staff for inquiry

Families affected by the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital (QEUH) infection scandal have criticised NHS bosses for spending thousands on coaching staff for the ongoing public inquiry. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) has reportedly allocated £20,000 annually to an external PR firm to train their employees to appear before the Scottish Hospitals Inquiry. This investigation focuses on the issues at the £842 million QEUH in Glasgow, where numerous patients contracted rare infections, leading to fatalities.

Relatives of the impacted individuals have accused the health board of prioritising their reputation over uncovering the truth. David Campbell, whose son James received anti-fungal drugs during cancer treatment in 2018 due to contaminated water, expressed disappointment in NHSGGC’s approach. He criticised the prepared witnesses for their apparent lack of depth and insensitive attitude towards the inquiry team, indicating that the coaching money was misused.

NHSGGC defended their decision to engage PR firm Second City Communications, stating that the coaching aimed to help staff navigate unfamiliar situations and effectively communicate in public forums. However, Patrick McGuire from Thompsons solicitors, representing most affected families, condemned the health board for undermining the pursuit of truth. Louise Slorance, seeking answers regarding her late husband Andrew’s infection at QEUH, noted a concerning scripted nature in the witnesses’ statements.

NHSGGC declined to disclose the number of staff members receiving specialised coaching but emphasised the firm’s longstanding support in various training aspects. The families affected by the QEUH scandal remain resolute in seeking transparency and accountability from the health board, expressing scepticism towards orchestrated narratives and emphasising the glaring evidence of failures at the hospital.

In conclusion, the families impacted by the QEUH infection scandal have raised valid concerns about the NHS’s allocation of funds towards coaching staff for the public inquiry. The prioritisation of reputation management over truth-seeking is a prevalent issue that undermines the families’ pursuit of justice and accountability in this challenging situation. It is essential for NHS organisations to uphold transparency and open communication to rebuild trust with affected individuals and the wider community.