A CAMPAIGN group has slammed a report into alleged bullying at Worcestershire’s hospitals as “disgraceful”.

The Good Governance Institute investigation into Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, which was released yesterday, Thursday, found the organisation’s policy for dealing with concerns was “not fit for purpose” but also there was “insufficient evidence to conclude that bullying and harassment is endemic at the trust”.

But campaign group Betrayed by their Trust, which has made numerous accusations of bullying against senior managers in Worcestershire’s health sector, has blasted the report, calling it “bland” and “literally a cover-up”.

The organisation’s chairman Nigel Gilbert said: “All those involved in the final version of this report should hang their heads in shame”.

Mr Gilbert said he was particularly concerned no information about specific allegations was included.

“This is a matter of public interest, but is being suppressed," he said.

An extraordinary meeting of the trust’s board to discuss the report was held yesterday, which was attended by members of Betrayed by their Trust.

Speaking this morning Mr Gilbert said: "It has been made clear by the trust that we must move on and draw a line under what has happened in the past.

“No abusers are to be held to account for what they have done.

“There are many distressed people this morning feeling totally betrayed."

But, speaking after yesterday’s meeting, the trust’s interim chief executive Chris Tidman said: “My board colleagues and I will do everything in our power to ensure we listen to staff, take their views seriously and ensure they feel safe and supported when they bring ideas to us, or raise concerns.

“The messages highlighted in the report have given us much to reflect and act on.

“We are proud of so many of our staff who work to deliver excellent patient care, or support those who do.”

The investigation was commissioned by the Trust Development Authority in February following concerns that allegations of harassment and bullying of employees by managers were not being investigated properly and collated information and feedback from more than 800 people.

It found an “inconsistent and confusing” approach to addressing concerns raised by staff and that many felt concerns were not being taken seriously, leading to feelings of “considerable frustration and helplessness”.

Although it was also found the board had demonstrated “good intentions”, they had failed to properly address issues and keep them updated about the progress of any investigations.

The full report can be viewed at www.worcsacute.nhs.uk.