Lucy Letby: Hospital boss who oversaw scandal blocked from running other trusts

Summary:

• Tony Chambers, former CEO of Countess of Chester NHS Trust, barred from roles in other trusts.
• Chambers took on multiple jobs post-resignation, earning over £500,000 in three years.
• Allegations suggest Chambers adopted a tough stance on consultants' complaints.
• Debate sparked on regulating managers with past concerns and allegations.
• Challenge persists in balancing career mobility and accountability for NHS managers.

Tony Chambers, the former chief executive of the Countess of Chester NHS Trust, who oversaw the hospital during the Lucy Letby scandal, has been prevented from taking up roles in other NHS trusts. Chambers held the position at the trust from 2013 until his resignation in 2018, shortly after Letby's initial arrest. While his departure was initially unrelated to the case, recent developments have raised questions about his tenure.

Chambers embarked on a series of roles after leaving Chester, accumulating earnings exceeding £500,000 over a span of three years. His appointment to these positions raised concerns among staff members, with allegations emerging that he exhibited an overly tough approach towards consultants. Whistleblowers reported that Chambers pressured the consultants to resolve their complaints swiftly, warning of potential consequences. These revelations, not widely known in 2018, have ignited a debate about the regulation of managers who carry concerns from previous positions, ensuring accountability and preventing a revolving door scenario.

The case of Tony Chambers highlights the ongoing challenges in overseeing the movements of NHS managers with questionable track records. Striking a balance between career mobility and accountability remains a complex task for NHS governance.