NHS chief executive Sir Len Fenwick sacked over 'gross misconduct'

The Newcastle hospitals boss had been the longest serving chief executive in the NHS

The British public's affection for the NHS and determination to fight for it appears stronger than ever, a new poll has found (Getty)

Sir Leonard Fenwick, the longest serving NHS chief executive, has been sacked over “gross misconduct”.

The Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust boss had been put on extended leave at the beginning of the year as investigations began. He had also appealed against the allegations.

The reasons behind the dismissal still remain largely mysterious, because the trust is unable to comment publicly with proceedings still continuing. Due to the “serious nature” of the issues, they have been reported to the NHS’s counter-fraud and security service, and those investigations are still ongoing and so can’t be discussed.

But it said that a disciplinary panel upheld complaints about “inappropriate behaviour, use of resources and a range of governance issues”, it said. After, he was sacked on the grounds of “gross misconduct”.

“A highly regarded HR specialist from outside of the Trust and the region carried out the investigation, which looked into the original issues and others that subsequently came to light,” NUTH said in a statement.

“The investigation was completed and the report received by the Trust. In the light of its findings and in line with the Trust’s HR policies, a hearing was held to allow a disciplinary panel to consider the findings and to give Sir Leonard the opportunity to respond.

“After giving very careful consideration to all the evidence presented at the two-day hearing, the disciplinary panel found that allegations relating to inappropriate behaviour, use of resources and a range of governance issues were proven.

“As a result the panel took the decision to dismiss Sir Leonard from his role as chief executive on the grounds of gross misconduct.

“This decision was not taken lightly, but made after very careful, lengthy and detailed consideration of the investigation report and Sir Leonard’s response to the allegations.”

Sir Leonard then chose to appeal the findings of the first panel. Another was convened and decided to uphold that first decision.

Before he had left, Sir Leonard had served for 40 years as leader of the Newcastle hospitals. His responsibilities are now being shared by Louise Robson, who serves as executive director of business and development, and medical director Andy Welch – that will continue until Sir Leonard’s job can be filled.