What could have been done to stop Jimmy Savile?
He became untouchable, because he was so revered by the hospital
A report out this morning publishes the full extent of Savile's evil abuse at Stoke Mandeville Hospital - and the procedures that could have prevented it. We're live with child protection expert Mark Williams Thomas, and we'll speak with a hospital worker who says she was there when the shamed DJ stalked the wards.
Statement from Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust
Chair of Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust Hattie Llewelyn-Davies said: On behalf of the NHS organisations that existed at that time – and on behalf of the NHS today - I want to say sorry to all of Jimmy Savile’s victims. I know how difficult it must have been for you to come forward and tell your stories after such a long time.Today Stoke Mandeville is a very different place. The Investigation says that now: “The Trust has a safeguarding team of experienced and qualified staff members who are fully aware of the importance of safeguarding” and it “has not found any safeguarding related situation where either children or vulnerable adults have been at risk.”
The report says the Trust “has a comprehensive set of evidence-based and fit-for-purpose policies and procedures” and it concludes that at the present time, “safeguarding processes are appropriate, and the safety of both children and vulnerable adults is not thought to be at risk.”
We’ve made real improvements. We are developing a culture of openness, transparency and engagement. We are also encouraging our staff to speak out when they see practice that falls below acceptable standards.
We will continue to support the people who were abused by Savile. We owe it to them that we listen and learn, that we remain constantly vigilant, and that we continue to improve our services. I promise we will do just that.
The ultimate responsibility for the shocking activities of Jimmy Savile must rest with the man himself but that doesn’t absolve anybody from learning the lessons that emerge from this important report.