Summary
Dr. Susan Gilby received £1.4 million in damages after winning a lawsuit against the Countess of Chester NHS Trust for unfair dismissal. The legal action followed her suspension in December 2022, which she claimed was a result of internal conspiracy and bullying by the trust's leadership. The total cost of the case, including court fees, could reach around £3 million.
Key Facts
- Dr. Susan Gilby was awarded £1.4 million in damages for unfair dismissal from her role as chief executive.
- The employment tribunal found the NHS trust had conspired to remove her from her position.
- Gilby accused the trust's chairman, Ian Haythornthwaite, of bullying and coordinating efforts to push her out.
- Gilby refused an early settlement offer that required her to drop her complaints against the leadership.
- The total cost to taxpayers, including legal and court costs, might be about £3 million.
- Ian Haythornthwaite and other directors involved in the conspiracy have since left their positions.
- Gilby took legal action after being suspended and not provided reasons for her suspension.
