Alder Hey doctor talks of “genuine fear” among medical and nursing staff

The Alder Hey doctor told a court today that there is “genuine fear” among staff.

An emergency High Court hearing in Manchester is currently underway in which the parents of Alfie Evans are calling for a judge to allow them to take him to Italy for treatment.

Ventilatory support was withdrawn by the hospital last night.

A doctor from Alder Hey Hospital told High Court Judge Mr Justice Hayden that there is a “genuine fear” among hospital staff from demonstrators supporting Alfie’s family, known as “Alfies Army”, would make the move “impossible” at present.

Alder Hey clinician tells court of “genuine fear” among fellow doctors in hostile atmosphere. Says it’s “heartbreaking we’re here again arguing when all we want to do is the best for Alfie’s family”.

— Josh Halliday (@JoshHalliday) April 24, 2018

Demonstrators have been occupying several areas around Alder Hay hospital since last week.

The unnamed doctor added it is “heartbreaking that we’re here again arguing when all we want to do is the best for Alfie’s family”.

There have been several reports of violence and aggression towards doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals working at the trust and there have been a significant amount of threats on social media against both staff and the NHS trust.

The Alder Hey website says “that violence and aggression towards staff, patients and families is not tolerated” and could lead to prosecution.

There is now a continuous police presence at Alder Hey Hospital.

In a statement last week the trust called for “all respect and consideration is shown to all [its] staff”.

Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust said, “This evening the High Court again ruled that it is in Alfie’s best interests to continue with the end of life care plan developed by the clinical team who have cared for him throughout.

Our top priority therefore remains in ensuring Alfie receives the care he deserves to ensure his comfort, dignity and privacy are maintained throughout. This includes working closely with Kate and Tom as they spend this precious time together with him.

We would be grateful if respect and consideration is shown to all our staff, patients and families at the hospital at this difficult time”.