Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham
Hospital
A report for the Board of Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust
Authors:
Hilary Lloyd
Director of Nursing, Midwifery and Quality
Rob Stead
Local Security Management Specialist
Kate Jones
Named Nurse for Safeguarding Children
Joanne Coleman
Strategic Lead for Safeguarding Adults and Children
2
Contents
1. Introduction
3
2. Executive summary and recommendations
5
3. Terms of reference
9
4. Approach to the investigation
11
5. Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust
14
6. Chronology of events surrounding Jimmy Savile’s visit to Bensham Hospital
15
7. The cultural context at the time
17
8. Jimmy Savile’s visit to Bensham Hospital in March 1990 – findings
18
9. Policy, practice and procedures during the time of Jimmy Savile’s visit to Bensham
Hospital
26
10. Current policies and procedures
27
11. Overall analysis and conclusions
28
12. Recommendations
30
Appendix A – Investigation Team Biographies
31
Appendix B – Documents reviewed
33
Appendix C – Lines of enquiry
34
Appendix D – List of those interviewed
37
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital (GHNFT)
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GATESHEAD HEALTH NHS FOUNDATION TRUST
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital
1. Introduction
This report has been prepared by the team who undertook the investigation, on behalf of
Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust (GHNFT), into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to
Bensham Hospital in March 1990.
The background to the investigation and the context in which evidence was found that
Jimmy Savile visited Bensham Hospital in March 1990 is described in this report. It outlines
the commissioning of the report, together with the terms of reference for the investigation.
It describes the methodology of the investigation, and provides some information about
Bensham Hospital. It then present the findings of the investigation, based upon the lines of
inquiry followed. It presents a review of all current pertinent Trust policies and finally
presents the conclusions drawn from the investigation and five recommendations for the
Trust.
The report and its recommendations were approved and signed off by the Trust Board at its
meeting on 15th December 2014.
Background and information leading to the investigation
On 3rd October 2012, ITV broadcast an exposure programme titled ‘The other side of Jimmy
Savile’, which featured five women who reported that they had been abused by Jimmy
Savile. As a result of this programme, many individuals came forward alleging that they too
had been abused by Jimmy Savile. In response to these allegations the Metropolitan Police
Service set up Operation Yewtree.
Separately in December 2012, Kate Lampard, was invited by the Secretary of State for
Health to oversee three NHS investigations into matters relating to Jimmy Savile. These
were at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Buckingham Healthcare NHS Trust and West
London Mental Health Trust, which runs Broadmoor Hospital with which Jimmy Savile was
closely associated.
On 11th January 2013, the Metropolitan Police Service jointly published a report with the
NSPCC, titled ‘Giving Victims a Voice’. This report listed NHS hospitals where Jimmy Savile
was reported to have offended.
As a result of this report and subsequent information provided by the Police, twelve further
investigations were commissioned at NHS hospitals.
In 2013, a number of departments within Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust were
relocated to Bensham Hospital, and as a result, previously unoccupied rooms and
cupboards were cleared. In October 2013, a storage box from Bensham Hospital was sent
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital (GHNFT)
4
to the Trust Secretary at Trust Headquarters. When opened, there were a number of items
found including visitor’s books, photographs from royal visits, and of particular note, 16
photographs taken during a visit to Bensham Hospital by Jimmy Savile.
The Trust Secretary contacted the Trust Security team and the Hospital Police Officer
regarding the photographs of Jimmy Savile. The Hospital Police Officer then contacted the
Metropolitan Police (Operation Yewtree) to inform them that this visit had taken place within
Bensham Hospital. The 16 photographs were then sent to Operation Yewtree, at their
request, on 18th October 2013.
On 19th August 2014, the Hospital Police Officer was contacted by Operation Yewtree, to
gain consent to share the photographs with the Department of Health. The consent was
given via email by the Trust’s Head of Facilities.
On 25th September 2014, the NHS Savile Legacy Unit (set up by the Department of Health)
wrote to the Chief Executive of GHNFT to advise, that despite there being no allegation of
any impropriety by Jimmy Savile during his visit to Bensham Hospital, the Trust was required
to undertake an investigation into the circumstances of the visit, for the purpose of patient
safety, to provide assurance that a thorough investigation has been conducted, with
appropriate supporting evidence.
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2. Executive summary and recommendations
The work undertaken, main findings and conclusions are summarised below for each
objective within the investigation’s terms of reference.
a) Examine and account for Jimmy Savile’s visit to Bensham Hospital or other
hospitals under the control of Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust or its
predecessor bodies.
The investigation team were able to trace and interview seven staff members working at
Bensham Hospital in March 1990; six of whom were present during the visit; comprising a
Consultant Geriatrician, the former Acting Hospital Manager, the former Acting Nursing
Officer, three former Ward Sisters and a Nursing Auxiliary. In addition, the investigation
team also interviewed a relative (Mr A) of a former patient of Bensham Hospital.
The accounts of the visit provided by witnesses are consistent on the following key points:






Jimmy Savile visited Bensham Hospital on one occasion only. There is no evidence
to suggest that he ever visited any other Gateshead Hospital.
The visit was set up between Mr A, on behalf of Bensham Hospital and a Metro
Radio producer.
Jimmy Savile was accompanied throughout his visit to Bensham by senior hospital
staff.
Jimmy Savile met staff and elderly adult patients on Ward 3 of Bensham Hospital.
The purpose of the visit was for Jimmy Savile to formally present some chairs which
had been bought from the proceeds of fundraising by a former patient’s relative and
Bensham Hospital staff.
None of the witnesses recall seeing anything which they considered inappropriate on
the part of Jimmy Savile towards the elderly patients on the ward.
b) Consider the access arrangements accorded to Jimmy Savile, the reasons for
these and the extent to which any access was subject to appropriate supervision
and oversight.
According to the statements made by interviewees in connection with his visit to Bensham
Hospital, Jimmy Savile was accompanied during the visit. This included the walk along the
corridor from the entrance to Ward 3, whilst he was on Ward 3, then back along the corridor
again when he left the hospital and was driven away. The statements suggest that he was
accompanied to the ward by a Consultant and Mr A, with a number of other staff including
Ward Sisters present on the ward. From the statements made to us, the evidence is that
Jimmy Savile was accompanied as a result of planned arrangements but, for the reasons set
out below, we cannot say whether or not this was in response to any policy requirement, nor
whether it was planned intentionally with patient safeguarding in mind.
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital (GHNFT)
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c)
Review relevant policies, practices and procedures which were in place at the
time of Jimmy Savile’s visit to Bensham Hospital, and consider the extent of
compliance with them.
The investigation team have been unable to find any relevant policies and procedures in
connection with Bensham Hospital, at the time of visit, in the Trust’s records. A Trust policy
has been drafted which requires that any celebrity visitor be supervised whilst on site.
d) In connection with the visit to Bensham Hospital or any other hospital under the
control of Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust or predecessor bodies, to
ascertain whether or not incidents occurred and, if so, what occurred, who was
involved and whether or not any such incidents were reported, investigated and
addressed. If they were not addressed ascertain the reasons for this.
As explained under (a) above, all of the seven former members of staff at Bensham Hospital
and the one family member of a former patient of Bensham Hospital interviewed as part of
this investigation stated they did not see anything untoward or inappropriate take place
involving Jimmy Savile.
Three matters were reported as having taken place by interviewees which might, depending
on the circumstances, require reporting on the Trust’s incident management system if they
occurred today, being the reported behaviour (in the form of hand licking, kissing of hands
and calling a member of staff ‘Hattie Jacques’) which could be perceived by the recipient as
harassment.
With regard to the incident of hand licking, the investigation team were unable to ascertain
which female nurse this had happened to. The auxiliary nurse who reported this incident
stated that he didn’t think the nurse had been distressed by it, and had merely made a
comment in passing about it to some of her colleagues.
The members of staff who raised the issue of Jimmy Savile being tactile and kissing their
hands stated that they did not report such incidents, as they did not think too much of them
at the time. This behaviour was displayed in full view of the accompanying senior nursing
and medical staff. The staff stated that they were aware of Jimmy Savile’s personality from
watching him on the television, and attributed his behaviour to his known ‘eccentricity’.
With regard to the Ward Sister who was called ‘Hattie Jacques’ by Jimmy Savile in front of a
number of other staff; that member of staff stated that she had been offended by the
comment. This incident was also recounted to the investigating team by an auxiliary nurse,
who overheard what had been said to the Ward Sister, as had a number of other staff. The
Ward Sister felt that she had not reported the incident to anyone because other people,
including junior staff had heard what had been said to her and had just laughed. She felt
that she had been disrespected in front of her staff and wanted to forget about it.
Northumbria Police confirmed through verbal contact in November 2014 that they were not
aware of, or investigating any matters relating to Jimmy Savile’s associations with NHS
organisations in Gateshead.
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e) Where complaints or incidents were not reported, or not investigated, or where no
appropriate action was taken, consider the reasons for this including organisational
culture and practices and the part played, if any, by Jimmy Savile’s celebrity or
fundraising role within Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust and/or predecessor
organisations.
See (d) above. The investigation team has concluded that Jimmy Savile did not have a
fundraising role within Bensham Hospital or any other Gateshead hospital
.
f) In light of the findings of fact in respect of the matters mentioned above, consider
whether Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust’s current policies and practice
including safeguarding, complaints, whistleblowing, access to patients (including
that afforded to volunteers and celebrities); patient privacy and dignity, security
and staff wellbeing at work are fit for purpose.
Current policies and procedures covering the following have been examined as part of the
investigation: recruitment and selection; safeguarding children; safeguarding adults;
sanctioned visits, raising concerns, discipline, security, patient privacy and dignity, staff
wellbeing at work.
The review of current policies and procedures has concluded these, with one exception, to
be robust and appropriate with compliance oversight. However, gaps have been identified
with respect to policy and procedure covering sanctioned visits. In addition, it would be
prudent for all of the above policies to be reviewed in the light of wider learning in respect of
Jimmy Savile’s involvement with NHS hospitals, once Kate Lampard’s independent ‘Lessons
Learned’ report has been published.
g)
Identify any recommendations for further action.
The following recommendations have been made to the Board:

The Board should commission a further review by the Named Nurse for Safeguarding
Children, the Strategic Lead for Safeguarding Adults and Children, the Local Security
Manager Specialist and Head of Human Resources of all the above policies in light of
the wider lessons learned from investigations throughout the NHS into Jimmy Savile,
following the publication of Kate Lampard’s independent, overall ‘Lessons Learned’
report in February 2015. Deadline March 2015.

It is good practice to continuously reinforce to staff, through the Trust’s safeguarding
training, the importance of reporting inappropriate behaviours via safeguarding
processes and procedures. This will be discussed within the corporate induction and
mandatory training programmes for all Trust staff. Deadline February 2015.

As a result of reviewing current policies, it is recommended that the Trust develops a
Policy that will clearly identify the steps to be taken when celebrities or ‘VIPs’ attend
any premises under the management of Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust.
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This policy should make clear that the visitor’s interactions with patients (including by
telephone) and with staff should be closely monitored, mindful of their impact on the
patient experience, or staff welfare, and ultimately on the Trust itself. Deadline
February 2015.

This investigation report should be published on the Trust website. Deadline
February 2015

Following the publication of Kate Lampard’s ‘Lessons Learned’ report in February
2015, the Trust will fully review the report and take any further actions as necessary.
Deadline March 2015.
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital (GHNFT)
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3. Terms of reference
The terms of reference for the investigation are set out below:
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust has
commissioned an investigation into a visit by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital. The
investigation is specifically in response to the discovery of 16 photographs found in a storage
box within Bensham Hospital, which appeared to show Jimmy Savile interacting with staff
and patients during a visit to Bensham Hospital, in March 1990.
Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust will work with independent oversight from the NHS
Savile Legacy Unit, appointed by the Department of Health and will:
1. Examine and account for Jimmy Savile’s visit to Bensham Hospital or other hospitals
under the control of Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust or its predecessor bodies.
2. Consider the access arrangements accorded to Jimmy Savile, the reasons for these and
the extent to which any access was subject to appropriate supervision and oversight.
3. Review relevant policies, practices and procedures which were in place at the time of
Jimmy Savile’s visit to Bensham Hospital, and consider the extent of compliance with
them.
4. In connection with the visit to Bensham Hospital or any other hospital under the control
of Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust or predecessor bodies, to ascertain whether
or not incidents occurred and, if so, what occurred, who was involved and whether or not
any such incidents were reported, investigated and addressed. If they were not
addressed ascertain the reasons for this.
The investigation does not have the power to impose disciplinary sanctions or make
findings as to criminal or civil liability. Where evidence is obtained of conduct that
indicates the commission of criminal and/or disciplinary offences, the police and/or
relevant employers will be informed.
5. Where complaints or incidents were not reported, or not investigated, or where no
appropriate action was taken, consider the reasons for this including organisational
culture and practices and the part played, if any, by Jimmy Savile’s celebrity or
fundraising role within Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust and/or predecessor
organisations.
6. In light of the findings of fact in respect of the matters mentioned above, consider
whether Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust’s policies at the time of the visit in
March 1990 and its current policies and practice including safeguarding, complaints,
whistleblowing, access to patients (including that afforded to volunteers and celebrities)
are fit for purpose.
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7. Identify any recommendations for further action.
The Chief Executive of Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust has commissioned Mrs
Hilary Lloyd, Director of Nursing and Midwifery, to lead the investigation, with legal advice
provided by Ward Hadaway Solicitors.
The findings of this investigation will be discussed with Gateshead Local Safeguarding
Children’s Board, Gateshead Local Safeguarding Adult’s Board, and the Acting Detective
Chief Inspector of the Public Protection Unit from Northumbria Police.
The ability of the investigation team to meet the above objectives may be limited by the
availability of witnesses and supporting documentary evidence, given the 24 year period of
time since the visit. It will be further limited should any available witness choose not to
cooperate.
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4. Approach to the investigation and methodology
The aims of the investigation and the tasks to be undertaken by Gateshead Health
Foundation Trust were as follows:
As previously stated, the Trust’s hospital police officer contacted the Metropolitan Police
(Operation Yewtree) to inform them that of the discovery of the photographs of Jimmy
Savile’s visit to Bensham Hospital. The 16 photographs were then sent to Operation
Yewtree, at their request, on 18th October 2013.
On 19th August 2014, the Hospital Police Officer was contacted by Operation Yewtree, to
gain consent to share the photographs with the Department of Health. The consent was
given via email by the Trust’s Head of Facilities.
On 25th September 2014, the NHS Savile Legacy Unit (set up by the Department of Health)
wrote to the Chief Executive of GHNFT to advise, that despite there being no allegation of
any impropriety by Jimmy Savile during his visit to Bensham Hospital, the Trust was required
to undertake an investigation into the circumstances of the visit, for the purpose of patient
safety, to provide assurance that a thorough investigation has been conducted, with
appropriate supporting evidence.
At the beginning of the investigation, the photographs from Jimmy Savile’s visit were shown
initially to the Trust’s Lead Nurse for Education and Development, who had been based at
Bensham Hospital in the 1980’s. She was asked to identify as many of the hospital staff
within the photographs as she could. She was able to identify two individuals, who were Dr
E, a Consultant Geriatrician and Mrs F, a former Ward Sister from Bensham Hospital. She
also advised the investigation team to speak with Mr G, a current employee of GHNFT who
also previously worked at Bensham Hospital during the 1990’s.
Mr G was spoken to, and confirmed that he had been present during the Jimmy Savile visit
and could remember some aspects of it very well. Mr G was willing to be interviewed.
The investigation team thereby conducted interviews with Dr E, Mrs F and Mr G, and as part
of this process, the photographs were shown to interviewees to assist them in recalling and
identifying to us others who were present during the visit;
Dr E identified the (then) Hospital Social Worker, who was visible in the photographs of the
visit, holding a camera. Using publicly available search engines, the investigation team were
able to locate the former Hospital Social Worker, and made telephone contact with him.
However, he stated that he was unable to recall anything about the visit, and could not
remember that he had even been present.
During his interview, Dr E told the investigation team about the fundraising involvement of Mr
A, a relative of a former patient at Bensham Hospital. Dr E stated that Mr A had been
instrumental in arranging the visit by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital. Again, using
publicly available search engines, we were able to locate Mr A and made telephone contact
with him. Mr A could remember his involvement with Bensham Hospital, and was willing to
be interviewed at home.
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital (GHNFT)
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Both Dr E and Mr G identified Mrs C, a former Ward Sister at Bensham Hospital. Mrs C is
now employed at another Health Trust, and we were able to contact her via her place of
employment. She agreed to be interviewed at her place of work.
From the photographs, Mr G also identified Mrs D and Mrs H, both former Ward Sisters from
Bensham Hospital. Using publicly available search engines, we were able to locate both
witnesses and they both agreed to being interviewed at their homes.
On 6th November 2014, the Secretary of State issued a ministerial statement informing
Parliament that the publication of the NHS investigations into Jimmy Savile would be
delayed until January 2015, at the request of the Crown Prosecution Service. Gateshead
Health NHS Trust was named as of one 12 new trusts undertaking investigations into Jimmy
Savile. Following the ministerial statement, there was local and national media interest, and
as a result of this, Mr B, a former Acting Unit Manager of Bensham Hospital, contacted
GHNFT to inform us that he remembered being present during Jimmy Savile’s visit. Mr B
agreed to be interviewed.
During his interview, Mr B identified another more senior hospital manager who worked at
Bensham Hospital around the time of Jimmy Savile’s visit. The investigation team were
aware that a relative of the former hospital manager is employed by GHNFT, and this person
was approached for contact details of the former hospital manager. The former hospital
manager was contacted via telephone, but stated that he was unable to remember any
details of the visit by Jimmy Savile and stated that he was unaware that the visit had ever
taken place.
Two other former nurses were identified to the investigation team by Mrs H and Mr A during
their interviews. Efforts were made to trace the former members of staff using publicly
available search engines and via former employee records however the investigation team
was not able to source employee records for these staff members, as the records have been
destroyed. The NHS Records Management Code of Practice was introduced in 2006, and
superseded Health Service Circulars 1999/053, ‘For the Record’ which provided guidance to
NHS organisations on the retention and destruction of records. The NHS Records
Management Code of Practice now requires NHS organisations to retain employee records
for 6 years after they leave employment, after which a summary file must be kept until the
employee’s 70th birthday. This was not the case at the time of Jimmy Savile’s visit to
Bensham Hospital in 1990.
During interview, all witnesses were asked to provide their recollection of the visit, including;
how the visit came about; which ward they worked on at the time of the visit itself; what they
witnessed; whether or not Jimmy Savile was accompanied during the visit; whether or not
they witnessed anything which they considered untoward or inappropriate; and whether or
not anything untoward or inappropriate was reported to them.
Two members of the investigation team from GHNFT attended a meeting with the NHS
Savile Legacy Unit, on 11th November 2014, with staff from other NHS Trusts also
undertaking Savile related investigations. The purpose of this meeting was for the Trust to
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital (GHNFT)
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provide the Savile Legacy Unit with an update of the investigation and to receive guidance
regarding the publication of this report.
Information provided to interviewees and approach to interviews
Interviewees were contacted initially by telephone and appointments made to interview them
in their own homes or at their place of work.
All interviewees were made aware, verbally, that they were being asked to assist the Trust’s
investigation which would be the subject of a formal, published report. The nature of the
investigation was explained to them. All witnesses were asked whether they agreed to the
information which they had provided to be referred to within the report, and they all agreed.
Written statements were produced at the end of each interview, reviewed for factual
accuracy with the interviewee, agreed and formally signed off by them. Typed transcripts of
each interview have subsequently been prepared.
No incidents of abuse have come to light during this investigation, and no matters requiring
interviews with former patients present during Jimmy Savile’s visit. The Trust developed
protocols for the investigation for communicating with and providing support for anyone
identified as a victim of abuse, which would have been used if required.
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5. Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust
Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust was authorised as a Foundation Trust on 5th
January 2005.
Its predecessor organisation, Gateshead Health NHS Trust was established on 1st April
1998, the result of a merger between Gateshead Healthcare and Gateshead Hospitals NHS
Trusts.
The Trust currently employs over 3,000 staff and provides services to the population of
Gateshead and surrounding areas. The Trust provides a full range of hospital services,
including acute hospital services, planned care services, urgent care and outpatient
services. The Trust also provides community services in patient’s homes and community
hospitals, including Bensham Hospital.
At the time of Jimmy Savile’s visit in 1990, Bensham General Hospital was primarily a site
for the care of elderly and stroke rehabilitation patients, under the management of
Gateshead Health Authority. As mentioned above, Bensham Hospital is now managed by
Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust.
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6. Chronology of events surrounding Jimmy Savile’s visit to Bensham
Hospital
The Trust was made aware of the visit following the discovery of 16 photographs found in a
storage box within Bensham Hospital, which showed Jimmy Savile interacting with staff and
patients during a visit to Bensham Hospital, in March 1990.
The chronology of the events is as follows:

October 1988 – Mr A’s relative passed away at Bensham Hospital

February 1989 – Mr A approached management of Bensham Hospital “with a view to
forming a Charitable Committee (Bensham Hospital Improvement Fund) comprising
of hospital staff, consultants and some interested outside parties. The aim of this
organisation would be to raise funds to enable the purchase of equipment for
Bensham General Hospital”. (Minutes of Senior Nurse Meeting, 14th February 1989)

April 1989 – Bensham Hospital Improvement Fund reported to have raised £1000
after a fundraising event by doctors and nurses in fancy dress. (Gateshead Post &
Times, 6th April 1989)

April 1989 – Charity show held raised further £1000 to improve the quality of care
provided to the elderly patients at Bensham Hospital. (Gateshead Post & Times, 27th
April 1989)

18th May 1989 – Memo sent by Mr B (Acting Unit Manager) to the Financial Services
Manager “The only charitable appeal relating to Bensham General Hospital is the
recently launched Bensham Hospital Improvement fund which has the aim of raising
£ 250,000 over a five year period and to date has raised approximately £2,300”.

July 1989 – Bensham Hospital Improvement Fund reported to have raised about
£2,500. (Gateshead Post & Times, 6th July 1989)

September 1989 – Bensham Hospital Improvement Fund continues with charity
roadshow. (Gateshead Post & Times, 26th September 1989)

October 1989 – Bensham Hospital Improvement Fund bought six recliner chairs
which have been distributed to hospital wards. (Gateshead Post & Times, 26th
October 1989)

March 1990 – Jimmy Savile visited Bensham Hospital, invited by the Bensham
Hospital Improvement Fund Committee to present equipment, including an
orthopaedic chair. Jimmy Savile reported to have seized a nurse’s cap and wrote an
IOU for £500 on it. (Gateshead Post & Times, 9th March 1990)
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The above account is largely consistent with those of the witnesses we have interviewed.
There are some discrepancies between statements, as noted in Section 9, as to how long
the visit lasted, and the actual date of the visit.
The investigation team was unable to establish the links between Bensham Hospital and
Metro Radio (the local radio station), but it is possible that Metro Radio became aware of the
charitable fundraising attempts by Mr A and Bensham Hospital staff via the local media, as it
was frequently documented in the local press (as can be evidenced overleaf). The company
who owned Metro Radio in or about March 1990 were subsequently taken over. Enquiries
were made with the current owners and their legal counsel but they were unable to provide
any information as records had not been retained by them.
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7. The cultural context at the time
At the time of Jimmy Savile’s visit in March 1990, Bensham Hospital was the responsibility of
Gateshead Health Authority.
Much has been written on the cultural context surrounding Jimmy Savile’s abuse of children
and adults. Press commentators have examined the extent to which his celebrity status
made him ‘untouchable’ and/or people turned a blind eye to reported suspicions because of
his fundraising efforts. There have also been numerous comments made in the media
regarding the difference in values in society between the period of Jimmy Savile’s ‘hey day’
(1960’s -1980’s) and the present time.
In the context of this investigation it is important to state – as summarised in Section 3 and
based on the evidence and analysis in Sections 8 and 11 – the Trust has no evidence of any
ongoing fundraising or volunteering relationship between Jimmy Savile and any Gateshead
hospitals. That he visited Bensham Hospital (at his radio producer’s request) to formally
present chairs is indicative of:



The appeal of his celebrity status and, possibly, his association with hospitals, which
resulted, based on the photographs of the visit and the statements of the
interviewees set out in Section 8, in a number of staff and patients eager to meet
Jimmy Savile.
His constant quest for publicity associated with fundraising or charitable acts.
The regard in which Jimmy Savile was held by those in the local NHS involved in
organising or agreeing to his visit to the hospital.
In addition, the difference in values in society between 1990 and the present time is
potentially reflected in both:


The female nurse, Mr G, Mrs C and Mrs D’s decisions not to report Jimmy Savile’s
actions/behaviour to senior hospital staff; and
The fact that Jimmy Savile’s behaviour towards the female nurse, Mrs C and Mrs D
was not challenged at the time.
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8. Jimmy Savile’s visit to Bensham Hospital in 1990 - findings
Interview with Dr E
Dr E was identified by a Trust staff member from the photographs of the visit.
He was interviewed at his place of work on 6th November 2014. A written statement was
taken, agreed with and signed off by Dr E.
Dr E was able to confirm that he had worked at Bensham Hospital as a Consultant Physician
Geriatrician from 1987 to 1994. He was able to recall Jimmy Savile’s visit to Bensham
Hospital, and stated that he had been instrumental in making the internal arrangements for
the visit.
Dr E stated that Mr A was a family member of a former patient of Bensham Hospital. This
patient had been nursed and subsequently died on one of the wards of Bensham Hospital,
and Mr A wanted to fundraise in memory of his relative, in order to improve facilities for
elderly patients.
Dr E recalled that a small committee named ‘Bensham Improvement Fund’ was set up by Mr
A, which included a few members of staff from Bensham Hospital. Dr E was himself a
member of this group and recalled that they met on a number of occasions to organise
fundraising events, and to decide how the proceeds would be spent.
Dr E stated that the group decided to buy some special reclining chairs with the proceeds of
the fundraising events. He recalled that Mr A offered to try and get a celebrity to formally
present the chairs to the hospital, and after that he heard news that Jimmy Savile was going
to come to do the presentation. Dr E said that Jimmy Savile was presenting a regular radio
programme from a station in Gateshead at the time.
Dr E believed the visit may have happened on a Thursday, somewhere between 1991and
1994. Dr E stated that the visit may have lasted approximately an hour, from 4-5pm.
Dr E stated that he and Mr A met Jimmy Savile at the entrance of the hospital, and walked
down the corridor to Ward 3, where it had been arranged that the nursing staff would gather
all patients onto one side of the ward.
Dr E was clear that he did not think that Jimmy Savile had been out of his sight at all during
the visit. He stated that he believed the visit lasted approximately an hour, and then he and
Mr A walked Jimmy Savile back to hospital entrance where his car was parked.
Dr E stated that in his opinion, Jimmy Savile’s behaviour during the visit did not appear
inappropriate towards staff or patients. Dr E remarked that as he and Jimmy Savile were
walking along the corridor to Ward 3, the conversation was ‘”terse”. Dr E recalled that when
he and Jimmy Savile arrived at Ward 3, Jimmy Savile went into “show biz” mode, and
entertained and engaged with the patients and staff, who all seemed to enjoy his visit. Dr E
stated that Jimmy Savile appeared “quite tactile”, in that he kissed the hands or cheeks of
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital (GHNFT)
19
female patients and staff. However, Dr E was clear that no one reported anything
inappropriate to him.
Dr E stated that other than the royal visit to Bensham Hospital, he was unable to recall any
other occasion where a high profile visitor attended. He made reference to “a whole load of
process” from palace officials and security checks required in the build up to the royal visit.
Dr E stated that in comparison, the visit by Jimmy Savile was very low key. Dr E stated that
he felt it was likely that the manager of Bensham Hospital would have been informed of the
impending visit by Jimmy Savile, and arrangements would have been made for refreshments
to be provided for the occasion. In Dr E’s view, things were more “ad hoc” at that time.
Interview with Mrs F
Mrs F was identified from the photographs by the Investigation Team, as she is still
employed by the Trust.
She was interviewed at her place of work on 2nd October and 19th November 2014. Two
written statements were taken, agreed with and signed off by Mrs F.
Mrs F was able to confirm that she worked as the Day Hospital Sister at Bensham Hospital
between 1989 and 1993. She identified herself in two of the photographs; in one of them
she was standing next to Jimmy Savile as he wrote on some paper, which she believes
could possibly be when he signed an autograph for her son, although she couldn’t be sure.
Mrs F was noted to be wearing a Sister’s uniform in the photographs, which she stated made
it likely that the visit occurred between late 1989 to early 1991.
Mrs F stated that she was unable to recall much about the visit. She felt sure that the visit
did not take place on her ward, but she recalled that all wards from Bensham Hospital had
been asked to send a representative; hence her presence there. Mrs F stated that she
couldn’t remember whether she had taken any patients with her.
Mrs F recalled Jimmy Savile was surrounded by people during his visit, and was shown
around by a party of staff. Mrs F did not think Jimmy Savile had been alone whilst he was
on the main ward and she did not think that he behaved inappropriately during his visit to
Bensham Hospital. Mrs F stated that the elderly patients were very positive about Jimmy
Savile’s visit afterwards. In Mrs F’s view, the visit may have lasted up to two hours.
Mrs F also made reference to the royal visit made by a minor royal to Bensham Hospital.
She recalled a tight schedule, security and a timetable for that visit. Mrs F stated that there
would have been involvement from the Central team in planning the visit beforehand, to the
point where staff were told where to stand. Mrs F stated that even when the Mayor came to
the hospital, those visits would be planned well in advance.
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital (GHNFT)
20
Interview with Mrs C
Mrs C was identified to us by a Trust staff member, from the photographs of the Jimmy
Savile visit. The investigation team were able to locate her using publicly available sources,
as she is now employed by a different NHS Trust.
Mrs C was interviewed at her place of work on 10th November 2014. A written statement
was taken, agreed with and signed off by Mrs C.
Mrs C was able to confirm that she worked as a Ward Sister at Bensham Hospital. She
confirmed that she was present at the time of Jimmy Savile’s visit, as she recognised herself
from the photographs. Mrs C stated that prior to seeing the photographs she had been
unable to remember the visit. Mrs C was unsure of the date when the visit could have taken
place.
Mrs C stated that she recalled that Jimmy Savile was at Bensham Hospital because some
chairs had been purchased out of charitable funds. She stated that she could not remember
how he came to be invited, or who invited him. When asked directly, Mrs C vaguely
remembered the Bensham Improvement Fund, and Dr E’s involvement with it, but could not
recall Mr A at all.
Mrs C initially stated that she did not think anything happened during the visit to make her
feel uncomfortable. On further discussion, Mrs C felt that it was not comfortable that Jimmy
Savile was over familiar with people with “the touching and the kissing”, and in terms of how
close he came to her; “always in your space”.
Mrs C stated that she did not tell anyone how she felt about Jimmy Savile during or after the
visit. Mrs C stated that she might have discussed it at the time with the other staff, but that
she couldn’t remember whether she had or not.
Mrs C stated that she did not think at that time there were any checks required if you wanted
to invite a visitor to the hospital. However Mrs C was only able to recall one other visit of any
significance, which was by a minor royal.
Interview with Mr B
Mr B contacted us following the media interest in the investigation, and confirmed that he
had been the Acting Unit Manager for Bensham Hospital, at the time of Jimmy Savile’s visit.
He is now retired.
Mr B was interviewed at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital on 13th November 2014. A written
statement was taken, agreed with and signed off by Mr B.
Mr B stated that Mr A was very involved in fundraising for Bensham Hospital, after his
relative had been nursed and subsequently died on Ward 2. Mr B recalled that Mr A was
from an entertainment background, and organised a number of fundraising events on behalf
of Bensham Hospital, featuring other celebrities. Mr B stated that he believed Mr A had a
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital (GHNFT)
21
provisional registered charity number for Bensham Hospital, and recalled that the “Bensham
Hospital Improvement Fund” had been set up for this purpose.
Mr B stated that the money from these fundraising events was used to buy three special
assisted chairs for the elderly patients on Ward 3 at Bensham Hospital. Mr B stated that
he’d heard in advance that Jimmy Savile was going to visit Bensham Hospital to formally
present the chairs, but stated that he felt “sceptical at the time, as the dates were vague”.
Mr B felt that Ward Sister Mrs H (the Acting Nursing Manager at the time) was instrumental
in setting up the visit and had liaised with the hospital Consultants. According to Mr B, there
was a time period of at least a fortnight when he knew for certain that the visit was to take
place. Mr B stated at the time there were no formal procedures for notifying up the chain of
command of the impending visit, but was certain that he would have informed the Senior
Managers of Gateshead Health Authority at the time. Mr B stated that he “always made sure
that everything was as proper as possible”. Mr B believed that the visit happened in either
1988 or 1989.
Mr B recalled that Jimmy Savile “swooped in” to the hospital, driven in what he believes was
a Rolls Royce. Mr B stated that he thought there was at least one other person with him. Mr
B stated that it had been arranged for Mr A to be present at the hospital from the beginning
of the visit, with other senior members of staff.
Mr B told us that he was not present at the beginning of the visit, but remembers seeing
Jimmy Savile during his time there. Mr B stated that the visit may only have lasted 30
minutes at the most. Mr B stated that he may have gone to Ward 3 towards the end of the
visit, but can’t be sure.
When asked, Mr B stated that he could remember the Mayoress visiting the hospital at
Christmas, but he could not recall any other visits by celebrities to Bensham Hospital.
Interview with Mr G
Mr G was identified to us by the Trust’s Practice Development Lead as having worked at
Bensham Hospital in the 1980s to 1990s. Mr G had also written a historical account of
Bensham Hospital, a copy of which was found in the same box as the 16 photographs. At
the end of the document, he had written his name, his designation, and the month and the
year that it had been written.
Mr G was interviewed at work on 13th November 2014. A written statement was produced,
agreed with and signed by Mr G.
Mr G confirmed that he was employed as a Nursing Healthcare Assistant on ward 1 at
Bensham Hospital from 1988 until the late 1990’s, before moving up to work at Queen
Elizabeth Hospital. He confirmed that he had been present on ward 3 at Bensham Hospital
at the time of Jimmy Savile’s visit. Mr G stated that he had been working at Bensham
Hospital for 2-3 years before Jimmy Savile visited; he stated that it may have been in the
early 1990s.
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital (GHNFT)
22
Mr G’s recollection of the reason for Jimmy Savile’s visit was that money had been raised to
buy special chairs for the elderly patients of Bensham Hospital, and Jimmy Savile came to
present them.
Mr G stated that the presentation was held on ward 3 of Bensham Hospital, and he
described a “buzz of excitement” before and during the visit. He stated that there were
nurses and managers present during the visit, and the staff all lined up to meet Jimmy
Savile. Mr G stated that Jimmy Savile shook his hand, and Mr G asked him whether he
planned to take part in the next Great North Run. Mr G recalls that Jimmy Savile replied
“God willing young man, God willing”.
Mr G recalls that Jimmy Savile kissed the hands of the female staff, and acted in a “comical”
fashion during the visit. He particularly remembered Jimmy Savile likening one of the Ward
Sisters to Hattie Jacques, an actress from the ‘Carry On’ films, which everyone standing
nearby found quite funny. Mr G recalled that Jimmy Savile asked for the Ward Sister’s hat
and wrote on it that he would donate some money. Mr G stated that he was unclear whether
this amount was for £1000.
Mr G believed that the visit would have lasted between 15-25 minutes. He felt that the visit
was a positive experience for the staff and patients involved, although he recalled that one of
the female staff told him afterwards that when it appeared that Jimmy Savile was going to
kiss the back of her hand, he licked it instead. Mr G stated that he found this “weird”. Mr G
did not think this incident had been reported to any of the Ward Sisters or Managers. Mr G
was unable to recall which nurse it was who told him this. When asked, Mr G stated that he
did not report the incident to anyone more senior, as he did not feel that the female nurse
was distressed or even concerned by this incident, and she was merely making a comment
that Jimmy Savile’s behaviour was unusual in this instance. Mr G told us that had the nurse
expressed distress of any kind then the ward sisters would have been made aware, and Mr
G felt sure that the appropriate action would have been taken, regardless of whether Jimmy
Savile was a celebrity or not.
Mr G could also recall a minor royal visiting Bensham Hospital to open the Ellison Unit on
another occasion, but was unsure as to whether this was before or after the visit by Jimmy
Savile.
Interview with Mr A
Both Dr E and Mr B named Mr A as being instrumental in arranging Jimmy Savile’s visit to
Bensham Hospital. The investigation team were able to find him using publicly available
sources.
Mr A was interviewed at his home on 19th November 2014. A written statement was taken,
agreed with and signed off by Mr A.
Mr A stated that he had been involved with fundraising at Bensham Hospital in the year
following his relative’s death, who died in October 1988. Mr A stated that he began raising
funds for Bensham Hospital early the following year, as he was aware that money was tight
for the hospital at that time. Mr A stated that he rarely visited Bensham Hospital before the
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital (GHNFT)
23
Jimmy Savile visit, as it was difficult for him to return there following the death of his relative.
Mr A and his wife recalled that several of the committee meetings were held at their home
address.
Mr A stated that he has a background in entertainment, and put on a roadshow for the local
workingmen’s clubs in Gateshead. Using his contacts, he was able to bring other popular
celebrities to Teams Club. He states that the money raised from these events was used to
purchase a number of specialist chairs for elderly patients. Mr A stated that he wanted one
of his celebrity contacts to present the chairs to the hospital, and that one of these celebrities
was his original choice.
Mr A stated that the other celebrities were not available to make the presentation. A Metro
Radio producer contacted him by telephone after hearing that Mr A needed someone to
present the chairs to Bensham Hospital. The radio producer suggested that Jimmy Savile
could attend Bensham Hospital instead. Mr A stated that this felt like a great opportunity,
and gladly accepted this offer on behalf of the hospital. Mr A recalled that the staff at
Bensham Hospital ‘arranged everything’, including the date of the proposed visit.
Mr A said that on the day of the visit Jimmy Savile and the radio producer were met at the
front door of the hospital. According to Mr A, there had been a buffet laid on, and that Mr B
and Ward Sister Mrs H may also have been present to welcome Jimmy Savile.
Mr A stated that the visit lasted approximately 30-40 minutes, and during that time Jimmy
Savile made a speech about the chairs. Mr A also recalled that Jimmy Savile took the hat
from one of the Ward Sisters and wrote “I O U £500” on it. Mr A could not be sure if Jimmy
Savile ever actually donated the £500 to the hospital.
Mr A recalled that Jimmy Savile was always accompanied by staff whilst in the hospital and
that he not did see anything untoward happening during the visit. Mr A was clear that Jimmy
Savile was not involved in any other fundraising events for Bensham Hospital Improvement
Fund, and that visit was his only contact with Jimmy Savile.
Mr A stated that very shortly after Jimmy Savile signed the Sister’s hat and had various
photographs taken, he quite abruptly announced that his visit was at an end, and there was
a collective exit where a few people, including Jimmy Savile, left the hospital.
In Mr A’s view, he believed that the visit took place either late 1989 to early 1990. He
remembered that one of the fundraising events before the visit was held on the same day
the Sheffield Hillsborough disaster occurred.
Interview with Mrs H
Mrs H was identified to us by Mr G, who provided sufficient information to enable her to be
located using publicly available sources.
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital (GHNFT)
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Mrs H was interviewed at her home on 20th November 2014. A written statement was
produced, agreed with and signed by Ms H.
Mrs H confirmed that she had been employed as a Ward Sister and also Acting Nursing
Officer at Bensham Hospital. Mrs H told us that she was involved in the Bensham
Improvement Fund, but cannot recall being present during Jimmy Savile’s visit to Bensham
Hospital.
Mrs H stated that she was approached by Mr A and one of the other Ward Sisters, with a
view to beginning to raise funds for the benefit of the elderly disabled patients of Bensham
Hospital. She was aware that Mr A’s relative had died in the months preceding this. Mrs H
also remembered that Dr E agreed to be involved and there were a number of meetings held
to discuss the fundraising events, and to decide what the money should be spent on. Mrs H
stated that the nurses asked for washable duvets and reclining chairs for the patients. Mrs H
told us that the fund was essentially “nurses having a voice about what patients needed”.
Mrs H recalled that these were formal meetings, with minutes taken and statements of
finance provided.
Mrs H stated that she had no recollection of any high profile visits to Bensham Hospital,
other than by a minor royal. Mrs H recalled the extremely high levels of security and very
tight arrangements put in place for that visit. Mrs H also stated that the Mayor may have
visited Bensham Hospital.
Mrs H was very clear that even in the 1980s/1990s no one could just come into the hospital
and wander around a ward. Mrs H stated that she and the other Ward Sisters were very
strict and would want to know who was on their wards; questions would be asked of any
visitors, including asking for identification. Mrs H stated that even though the wards weren’t
locked in those days, the Ward Sisters were always mindful of their patient’s safety. Mrs H
was also clear that regardless of their fundraising activities, visitors had never been
permitted to have unaccompanied access to the wards or patients.
Interview with Mrs D
Mrs D was identified to us by Mr G and Mrs H, who was also able to provide contact details
for her.
Mrs D was interviewed at her home on 24th November 2014. A written statement was
produced, agreed with and signed by Mrs D.
Mrs D confirmed that she had been employed as a Ward Sister of Ward 1 at the time of
Jimmy Savile’s visit to Bensham Hospital. She identified herself from one of the
photographs taken at the time of the visit.
Mrs D stated that she remembered meeting Jimmy Savile in the foyer of Ward 1. He kissed
her hand, which she stated she found “a bit forward”. Jimmy Savile told her that he had met
her before. She stated that she did not know what he meant, until he went on to say that he
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital (GHNFT)
25
had seen her in the ‘Carry On’ films as the actress Hattie Jacques. Mrs D stated that other
people were close by when Jimmy Savile said this, and she felt quite offended.
Mrs D stated that Jimmy Savile and the other people did not come into the main part of her
ward, but walked the short distance along the corridor to Ward 3. Mrs D stated that she
can’t remember being on Ward 3, yet acknowledges that one of the photographs shows her
there. Mrs D stated that she believed the reason Jimmy Savile had come to Bensham
Hospital was because he had donated money or chairs to one of the wards.
Mrs D confirmed that it was her Sisters hat that Jimmy Savile wrote on during the visit, as
her name was written on the underside, but was unable to recall how this happened.
Mrs D was unable to recall how long the Jimmy Savile’s visit lasted to Bensham Hospital.
She was not aware of any untoward incidents occurring towards patients or other staff during
the visit.
Corroborating Evidence
An electronic search of the internet was undertaken to establish if there were any available
reports in the local press. The 1980’s/1990’s predated the electronic collection of
information and the internet, but this line of enquiry was nonetheless pursued. In addition, a
manual search of archived local newspapers was undertaken at Gateshead Central Library.
There were six different articles found in the now obsolete Gateshead Post & Times
newspaper, featuring news and updates of the Bensham Hospital Improvement Fund in
1989 and also documenting the visit of Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital in March 1990.
A number of archived files were found in the storage area of Bensham Hospital. Of
relevance to this investigation, these included the Minutes of Senior Nurse Meetings from
1986-1989, and the Amenity/Trust Fund records from 1986-1990. There was one set of
Minutes from the Senior Nurse Meeting held on 14th February 1989 which referred to Mr A’s
approach to the Bensham Hospital management team with a view to forming a Charitable
Committee. There was also a Memorandum from Mr B to the Financial Services Manager,
dated 18th May 1989, informing her of the recent launch of the Bensham Hospital
Improvement Fund.
The investigation team were also able to locate the Ward Sister’s hat that Jimmy Savile
wrote on during his visit to Bensham Hospital. There are two available photographs of
Jimmy Savile sitting in one of the chairs holding the Sister’s hat above his head.
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital (GHNFT)
26
9. Policy, practice and procedures during the time of Jimmy Savile’s visit to
Bensham Hospital
The investigation team were unable to locate any relevant policies or procedures in relation
to Bensham Hospital at the time of the visit by Jimmy Savile in 1990. The hospital archives
have been reviewed in relation to Gateshead Health NHS Trust. Due to the length of time
which has elapsed since the visit and various organisational changes, relevant policies and
procedures which may have been in place at the time of the visit, have not been located.
Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust has a current policy which governs the retention
and disposal arrangements for records and documentation, reflecting national guidance on
this issue.
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital (GHNFT)
27
10. Current policies and procedures
This investigation has sought to identify any lessons learnt in respect of whether current
policies and procedures covering safeguarding, complaints, whistleblowing, volunteering and
supervision of visits are fit for purpose. The following policies and procedures have been
examined:

















PP01
PP10a
PP10b
PP19
PP20
PP27
PP35
PP39
RM11
RM21
OP29
OP75a
OP75b
OP75c
OP75d
OP75e
OP63
Disciplinary policy
Recruitment and Selection policy (non medical staff)
Recruitment and Selection of Consultants Policy
Employment policy relating to Disclosure and Barring requirements
Business Standards Policy
Volunteers policy
Raising concerns policy
Wellbeing at work policy
Security policy
Complaints and Concerns policy
Safeguarding patient privacy and dignity policy
Safeguarding Children policy
Safeguarding Children Supervision policy
Safeguarding Unborn Babies policy
Safeguarding Adults policy
Safeguarding Adults Supervision policy
Media Policy
The Trust has a number of robust policies in place in relation to the protection of children
and adults, access to patients and listening to and acting on patient concerns. The
Safeguarding Children and Adults policies have been updated in 2014, in line with national
guidance. All policies are accessible to all staff and volunteers via the Trust Intranet. The
Trust website also has information for the public to access, which tells them what to do if
they have concerns about the abuse or neglect of a child or vulnerable adult. The Trust also
has a ‘whistleblowing’ policy to encourage staff or volunteers to raise concerns, which is also
available on the intranet.
Safeguarding is included in the Corporate Induction programme, and annual Mandatory
Training programme delivered to all staff (clinical and non-clinical) and volunteers.
The Trust’s Volunteers policy requires the same level of pre-employment vetting (including
Disclosure and Barring checks) as for permanent staff and includes requirements for
attending Corporate Induction prior to commencing work and accessing supervision.
The Trust is a partner agency of Gateshead Safeguarding Adults Board and Gateshead
Safeguarding Children Board. Safeguarding Children Boards are the key statutory
mechanism for agreeing how the relevant organisations in each local area will cooperate to
safeguard and promote the welfare of children in that locality, and for ensuring the
effectiveness of what they do.
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital (GHNFT)
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11.
Overall analysis and conclusions
Work undertaken as part of this investigation has been set out in Section 4 and detailed
findings in Section 8. Eight witnesses were interviewed in total and all were consistent with
the following points:

Jimmy Savile attended Bensham Hospital on one occasion only.

Jimmy Savile was not involved in any ongoing fundraising or charity work for
Bensham Hospital.

The purpose of Jimmy Savile’s visit to Bensham Hospital was to formally present
special chairs to the wards, purchased by money raised through a charitable
committee titled Bensham Hospital Improvement Fund.

Jimmy Savile was accompanied by hospital staff on entry to Bensham Hospital.

Ward 3 was very busy during the visit, with many staff and elderly patients. Jimmy
Savile was accompanied by staff throughout his time on the ward.

None of the witnesses recall seeing anything they considered untoward or
inappropriate on the part of Jimmy Savile towards the patients on the ward.
There are discrepancies in the statements provided around the following points:

There are discrepancies around how long Jimmy Savile’s visit lasted to Bensham
Hospital. Four witnesses stated that it lasted under an hour, and one witness stated
that it may have lasted up to two hours.

There are discrepancies around the date of Jimmy Savile’s visit to Bensham
Hospital. Of the eight interviewees, four provided dates that varied from 1988 to
1994. The majority of witnesses believed that the visit happened between 1989 1991. However searches of local press identified that the visit took place in March
1990.

One witness stated that Jimmy Savile and a number of accompanying staff stopped
at the entrance of Ward 1 before continuing to Ward 3, and described the meeting
with him in the foyer of Ward 1. She did not think she had been present on Ward 3,
however, in one of the photographs she was clearly present on Ward 3, as was her
hat, which Jimmy Savile signed.
Given that the events being recalled took place 24 years ago, it is unsurprising that there are
some discrepancies on the point of detail. We do not consider these discrepancies of
particular significance, as witnesses are clear that Jimmy Savile was accompanied for the
duration of the visit by senior staff at Bensham Hospital.
There are matters identified in the witness interviews which are worthy of further comment:
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital (GHNFT)
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
One witness told us that one of the female nurses had told him that Jimmy Savile had
licked her hand during the visit.

Two witnesses told us that Jimmy Savile referred to one of the members of staff as
‘Hattie Jacques’.

Five of the witnesses mentioned that Jimmy Savile kissed the female’s hands during
the visit, one describing him as “tactile”, one describing him as “ a bit forward”, and
another witness describing his behaviour as “a bit bizarre” and “over familiar” which
was not comfortable to her at the time.
With regard to the incident of hand licking, the investigation team were unable to ascertain
which female nurse this had happened to. The auxiliary nurse who reported this incident to
us stated that he didn’t think the nurse had been distressed by it, and had merely made a
comment in passing about it to some of her colleagues, who had felt that the incident was
“weird”.
The members of staff who raised the issue of Jimmy Savile being tactile and kissing their
hands stated that they did not report such incidents, as they did not think too much of them
at the time. This behaviour was displayed in full view of the accompanying senior nursing
and medical staff. The staff stated that they were aware of Jimmy Savile’s personality from
watching him on the television, and attributed his behaviour to his known ‘eccentricity’.
With regard to the Ward Sister who was called ‘Hattie Jacques’ by Jimmy Savile in front of a
number of other staff; that member of staff stated that she had been offended by the
comment. This incident was also recounted to the Investigating team by an auxiliary nurse,
who overheard what had been said to the Ward Sister, as had a number of other staff. The
Ward Sister felt that she had not reported the incident to anyone because other people,
including junior staff had heard what had been said to her and had just laughed. She felt
that she had been somewhat disrespected in front of her staff and wanted to forget about it.
These matters highlight potential learning points with respect to the process of escorting and
supervising visitors, particularly celebrities. A recommendation has been made to the Board
with respect to strengthening and clarifying the supervision process in Section 12.
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital (GHNFT)
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12.
Recommendations
The investigation team concluded that there were no recommendations in relation to the visit
itself; however there are a number of recommendations following the subsequent events
concerning Jimmy Savile and NHS premises:

The Board should commission a further review by the Named Nurse for Safeguarding
Children, the Strategic Lead for Safeguarding Adults and Children, the Local Security
Manager Specialist and Head of Human Resources of all the policies referred to on
page 26, in light of the wider lessons learned from investigations throughout the NHS
into Jimmy Savile, following the publication of Kate Lampard’s independent, overall
‘Lessons Learned’ report in February 2015. Deadline March 2015.

It is good practice to continuously reinforce to staff, through the Trust’s safeguarding
training, the importance of reporting inappropriate behaviours via safeguarding
processes and procedures. This will be discussed within the corporate induction and
mandatory training programmes for all Trust staff. Deadline February 2015

As a result of reviewing current policies, it is recommended that the Trust develops a
Policy that will clearly identify the steps to be taken when celebrities or ‘VIPs’ attend
any Trust premises. This policy should make clear that the visitor’s interactions with
patients (including by telephone) and with staff should be supervised, mindful of their
impact on the patient experience, or staff welfare, and ultimately on the Trust itself.
Deadline February 2015.

This investigation report will be published on the Trust website. Deadline February
2015

Following the publication of Kate Lampard’s ‘Lessons Learned’ report in February
2015, the Trust will fully review the report and take any further actions as necessary.
Deadline March 2015.
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital (GHNFT)
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Appendix A – Investigation Team Biographies
Hilary Lloyd
Hilary is the Director of Nursing, Midwifery and Quality. She took up the role in September
2014, after three years working as the Deputy Director of Nursing, Midwifery and Quality
also at Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust.
Hilary first joined QE Gateshead in 2011 and has expert nursing knowledge, broad range of
clinical experience and leadership. She is a member of the Northern Clinical Senate.
Hilary has previously worked as Head of Nursing Development and Principal Lecturer at
another Foundation Trust and as a Senior Lecturer at a University. She has been a qualified
nurse for 25 years and has a BA (Hons), MSc in Advanced Practice and is currently studying
for a professional doctorate in Nursing Practice.
She has several academic publications, including a text book on Nursing: Vital Notes on
Principles of Care (2009).
Kate Jones
Kate is the Named Nurse for Safeguarding Children at Gateshead Health NHS Foundation
Trust, and has been employed in this role since 2008. During this time Kate has undertaken
internal reviews and written the Individual Management Reports for a number of Serious
Case Reviews. Kate is also a Trust investigator for matters relating to safeguarding, and is
the point of contact in relation to Local Authority Designated Officer referrals when there are
allegations against staff relating to children.
Kate has been a qualified nurse since 1997 and has a BA (Hons). Kate has studied at
Masters level in the subjects of Child Protection and Criminology, in addition to completing a
Postgraduate Certificate in Leadership in Safeguarding.
Rob Stead
Rob is a Local Security Management Specialist and trained investigator. For the last year he
has been employed by Gateshead NHS Foundation Trust as the Security and Facilities
Support Manager, in addition to his role as a tutor of Prevention and Management of
Violence and Aggression.
Prior to joining the Trust, Rob worked as the contracted Security Manager for a private
security service provider. Rob has spent twenty years in the security industry, starting out as
a security officer. Over 13 years have been spent in Operational Management and training
roles.
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital (GHNFT)
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Joanne Coleman
Joanne is the Strategic Lead for Safeguarding Adults and Children, appointed in September
2014. Prior to this she was a Matron within the Surgical Business Unit and the Lead for
Safeguarding Adults within the unit.
Joanne has completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Safeguarding and Leadership, and is a
Safeguarding Adults Manager; undertaking a number of strategy meetings and
investigations in respect of allegations of abuse. Joanne has also completed Peer Review
training as part of a specialist team of investigators, for a range of public sector bodies
including other hospital trusts and local authorities.
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital (GHNFT)
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Appendix B – Documents Reviewed
The following documents have been reviewed:
Current Policies:
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PP01
PP10a
PP10b
PP19
PP20
PP27
PP35
PP39
RM11
RM21
OP29
OP75a
OP75b
OP75c
OP75d
OP75e
OP63
Disciplinary policy
Recruitment and Selection policy (non medical staff)
Recruitment and Selection of Consultants Policy
Employment policy relating to Disclosure and Barring requirements
Business Standards Policy
Volunteers policy
Raising concerns policy
Wellbeing at work policy
Security policy
Complaints and Concerns policy
Safeguarding patient privacy and dignity policy
Safeguarding Children policy
Safeguarding Children Supervision policy
Safeguarding Unborn Babies policy
Safeguarding Adults policy
Safeguarding Adults Supervision policy
Media Policy
Specific documents:
16 photographs found at Bensham Hospital (see Sections 4 and 8 for more details).
Newspaper articles from the Gateshead Post & Times Newspaper (from 1989-1990)
Minutes of Bensham General Hospital Senior Nurse Meeting (14th February 1989)
Memorandum from Bensham General Hospital Manager to Finance Officer (18th May 1989)
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Appendix C – Lines of enquiry
The following lines of inquiry were identified to form the basis of the investigation:
1. Identify the date of Jimmy Savile’s visit to Bensham Hospital.
Action taken and subsequent findings:
During interview, all witnesses were asked if they could recollect the date of Jimmy
Savile’s visit to Bensham Hospital. The dates given by witnesses varied slightly from
each other. After reviewing Trust documents and undertaking searches of local press,
the investigation team were able to confirm that the visit was in March 1990.
2. Identify the number of occasions Jimmy Savile visited Bensham Hospital, and other
hospitals within Gateshead.
Action taken and subsequent findings:
All witnesses were asked if they could recall visits to Bensham Hospital or any other
Gateshead Hospital by Jimmy Savile. The witnesses all stated that they were only
aware of the one highlighted visit to Bensham Hospital by Jimmy Savile; the
circumstances of which have been clearly documented within this report. Searches of
local media would also support this assertion.
3. Identify, locate and interview all of the hospital staff within the 16 photographs taken
during Jimmy Savile’s visit to Bensham Hospital.
Action taken and subsequent findings:
Through discussion with Senior Trust staff who had previously worked at Bensham
Hospital, the investigation team were initially able to identify a number of hospital staff
visible within the photographs. During interview, witnesses were able to identify several
more hospital staff, who were also contacted. Some of the hospital staff were unable to
recall the visit by Jimmy Savile and were therefore unable to provide any information.
However the majority of hospital staff, particularly nursing and medical staff, were
located and interviewed for the purpose of the investigation.
4. Identify, locate and interview patients, family members and friends within the 16
photographs taken during Jimmy Savile’s visit to Bensham Hospital.
Action taken and subsequent findings:
Given the approximate ages of the elderly patients pictured within the photographs of the
visit in 1990, the investigation team considered it unlikely that the patients would still be
living 24 years later. The investigation team were able to locate a family member of a
former patient of Bensham Hospital, who was able to provide information regarding the
Jimmy Savile visit.
5. Locate and interview possible witnesses who worked in Bensham Hospital between the
late 1980’s to early 1990’s.
Action taken and subsequent findings:
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital (GHNFT)
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As previously stated, the investigation team were able to locate and interview a number
of hospital staff who worked at Bensham Hospital in 1990, some of whom were identified
in the photographs of the visit, and others who were there but not visible within the
photographs.
6. Establish if witnesses remembered or recalled Jimmy Savile visiting Bensham Hospital
and if so under what conditions and how was he treated.
Action taken and subsequent findings:
During interview, most witnesses were able to clearly recall the visit by Jimmy Savile and
were able to provide a comprehensive account of why he was there, whom he was
accompanied by and what happened during the visit.
7. Identify what kind of controls were in place at Bensham Hospital at the time of Jimmy
Savile’s visit.
Action taken and subsequent findings:
The investigation team were unable to locate any formal policies and procedures which
were in place in 1990. However, during interview, witnesses stated that the visit had
been formally arranged with overview by senior managers, and that Jimmy Savile was
accompanied by senior medical and nursing staff throughout his visit.
8.
Assess the robustness of policies and procedures in place at the time of the above visit
to Bensham Hospital in respect of the vetting of staff and volunteers, and the escorting
and supervision of volunteers and celebrities.
Action taken and subsequent findings:
As previously stated, the investigation team have been unable to locate any policies and
procedures from the time of the visit in 1990.
9. Establish the frequency of visits of celebrities or famous people to the site.
Action taken and subsequent findings:
In addition to the visit by Jimmy Savile in 1990, witnesses also recalled a visit by a minor
royal to Bensham Hospital in 1992. Three witnesses also recalled annual visits by the
Mayor and Mayoress. There is no evidence of any other high profile visits to Bensham
Hospital.
10. Identify how visits of celebrities or famous people were managed.
Action taken and subsequent findings:
During interview, witnesses gave their account of how Jimmy Savile’s visit was
managed, in terms of which staff accompanied him and which part of the hospital he was
shown. Jimmy Savile was accompanied throughout his visit to Bensham Hospital.
Witnesses were also able to recall that there also were very structured arrangements in
place prior to and during the visit of the minor royal in 1992.
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital (GHNFT)
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11. Establish what policies and procedures were in place to manage visitors to the site and
the protection of patients.
Action taken and subsequent findings:
The investigation team were unable to locate any policies and procedures relating to the
management of visitors from the time of the visit. Witnesses were clear that visitors to
the hospital would be supervised and they described a culture of formality and discipline
at Bensham Hospital which was overseen by the Ward Sisters and Senior Managers.
12. Search press and publicity records for any information relating to Jimmy Savile and his
presence at Bensham Hospital.
Action taken and subsequent findings:
Searches were undertaken of local press and an article was identified in the Gateshead
Post & Times (9th March 1990), which gave details of Jimmy Savile visiting Bensham
Hospital. The description of the visit supported the information already provided by the
witnesses during interview.
13. Search any records of Charitable Funds for Bensham Hospital for any links to Jimmy
Savile.
Action taken and subsequent findings:
The investigation team were able to find records of Amenity/Trust funds from Gateshead
Hospitals dating from 1985 -1990; there was no reference made or links to Jimmy Savile
within those records.
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Appendix D – List of those interviewed
The following individuals have been interviewed:
Dr E – Consultant Physician Geriatrician, formerly at Bensham General Hospital
Mrs F – Former Day Unit Sister at Bensham General Hospital
Mr B - Former Acting Unit Manager of Bensham General Hospital
Mr G - Nursing Auxiliary, formerly at Bensham General Hospital
Mrs C - Former Ward Sister from Bensham General Hospital
Mr A - Family member of former patient at Bensham General Hospital
Ms H – Former Acting Nursing Officer, Former Ward Sister of Bensham General Hospital
Mrs D - Former Ward Sister of Bensham General Hospital
Investigation into a visit made by Jimmy Savile to Bensham Hospital (GHNFT)