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Nurse Wins Unfair Dismissal Case
A nurse wins unfair dismissal claim after a two-year suspension following a false patient allegation.
English
United Kingdom
JusticeHuman Rights ViolationsHealthLawsuitEmploymentSuspensionAllegation
CumbriaNorthumberlandTyne And Wear Nhs Foundation TrustSunderland University
Jessica ThorpePatient XLynne Shaw
- Why was Jessica Thorpe suspended from her job?
- Jessica Thorpe, a nurse, was suspended for over two years after a patient falsely accused her of being pregnant with his child. Despite the allegation being dropped, her suspension continued until she won an unfair dismissal claim.
- What was the outcome of the disciplinary hearing?
- The disciplinary hearing in July 2021 found insufficient evidence to support the patient's claim, yet Ms. Thorpe didn't receive written confirmation. Her suspension persisted due to other unspecified investigations.
- How did the trust respond to the tribunal's decision?
- The trust expressed disappointment with the tribunal's decision and stated that it would review the situation to identify lessons learned from the case.
- What financial impact did the suspension have on Jessica Thorpe?
- During her suspension, Ms. Thorpe experienced significant financial hardship, losing approximately \u00a31,000 per month. The trust eventually made some back payments, but the financial damage remains significant.
- What legal action did Jessica Thorpe take against the trust, and what was the result?
- Ms. Thorpe sued Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust for constructive unfair dismissal, unlawful wage deduction, and breach of contract, winning all three claims. She resigned shortly after being reinstated in October 2022.