NHS blamed for 'predatory' nurse

A male nurse had sexual relationships with more than 20 of his patients undetected by his NHS bosses an investigation has found.

David Britten, a former manager of the Peter Dally Clinic in Westminster, prayed on at least 23 patients over a 20-year period before allegations of sexual misconduct emerged.

They only came to light after the nurse - now 54 - was sacked by the centre for unrelated matters.

An investigation, commissioned by North West London Strategic Health Authority - now NHS London - concluded that poor management, missed opportunities and the reluctance of his vulnerable victims to speak out allowed the abuse to carry on.

He was described in the report as a "manipulative predator who represented a clear danger to women". He has not faced any criminal charges, with the Criminal Prosecution Service claiming there was insufficient evidence.

Alison McKenna, who chaired the investigation, said: "The effect of David Britten's abuse of these vulnerable women cannot be overestimated.

"David Britten was a specialist in eating disorders and would have known that affected individuals can be very compliant and eager to please. He deliberately targeted vulnerable patients, grooming them for his own sexual gratification".

NHS London chief nurse Trish Morris-Thompson apologised.

She said: "As a nurse and a midwife, I am appalled by David Britten's actions and that they went unchecked for so long. He abused not just these women but also his position of professional trust".

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