Sexual abuse of patients with eating disorders
NHS London commissioned Verita to conduct an independent investigation into the sexual abuse of young women at an eating disorder clinic by David Britten, the clinic manager. The investigation revealed that David Britten had sexually abused 23 women over a period of 20 years. The investigation found that David Britten had used his knowledge of eating disorders to target the most vulnerable women - and that he manipulated colleagues as well as his patients.Considerable tact and sensitivity were required to win the trust and cooperation of the victims, and to advise them on dealing with journalists (which had been encouraged by some of them). The investigation report was published in July 2008. Verita subsequently ran a half-day workshop for chief executives, medical directors and nursing directors of mental health trusts and primary care trusts in London to share the findings and recommendations, in particular how to establish and maintain appropriate boundaries between health professionals and patients.
Professor Trish Morris-Thompson, chief nurse at NHS London, said: "The David Britten case is a stark reminder to us all of the importance of maintaining strict professional boundaries, especially in mental health services. The workshop brought everyone up to date with the latest guidance on establishing clear sexual boundaries so that we reduce the likelihood of anything like this happening again."