Alcohol-related issues and unprofessional behaviour are just some of the reasons why staff have been suspended from health trusts in South West London.

Six members of staff have been suspended from Hounslow and Richmond Community Health Care Trust since 2016, for everything from alcohol-related issues to unprofessional behaviour and IT access.

Half of the suspensions were for staff in admin roles, and lasted between one and six months.

However, there have not been any cases since June 2018.

A spokesperson for the Trust said: “We take the professional conduct of our staff extremely seriously and the vast majority of our colleagues act with the utmost integrity.

“In a very small number of isolated cases, a member of staff may be temporarily suspended while specific concerns are investigated. Suspension does not automatically imply any wrongdoing but is done to facilitate a fair and thorough investigation.

“Our priority is always the safety and wellbeing of patients and staff, and we promote a culture of openness and learning from mistakes so we can continue to provide the very highest standards of care in a supportive and inclusive working environment.”

Kingston Hospital Trust saw 14 suspensions in the same period, however, the Trust said it could not break down the reasons or dates of the suspensions. 

It only said that five related to medical staff, while six were admin and three were in tech or scientific roles. 

Kelvin Cheatle, Director of Workforce at the Trust said: “Since January 2016, a total of 14 members of staff have been suspended from a workforce of more than 3,000. The Trust has policies and procedures in place to ensure each case is given fair and appropriate consideration, and only suspends staff members where absolutely necessary.”