Gavin Nicholson, a nurse, was convicted of three counts of sexual assault at Newcastle Crown Court and was subsequently referred to the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). The NMC considered his fitness to practice at a hearing recently and made a finding that his fitness to practice was impaired due to his convictions and ordered that he be stuck off the medical register.
Mr Nicholson was accused of sexually assaulting three women whilst they were recovering from general anaesthetic at the private Spire Washington Hospital in Tyne and Wear. The Case Presenter for the NMC told the panel that the allegations against Mr Nicholson became clear in September 2008 following a complaint made by a patient. During the police’s investigations, it was discovered that other patients had made similar complaints. The Case Presenter stated that, "These offences were a gross breach of trust. Each victim was at their most vulnerable, powerless to protect herself against the registrant's indecent actions.”
The Panel chairwoman, Jennifer Laing, said, "The panel considered that this order was necessary to mark the importance of maintaining public confidence in the profession, and to send to the public and the profession a clear message about the standard of behaviour required of a registered nurse.”
Our fitness to practice lawyers regularly represent health professionals before their regulators at fitness to practice panel hearings. If you would like some advice or representation, you can call us now on 01616 966 229.
By Laura Hannah
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