Scottish ambulance bosses accused of bullying

Scottish Ambulance Service’s top two managers have taken voluntary leave of absence pending the outcome of an independent investigation into claims that they have been using bullying and harassment tactics.

Chief Executive Kevin Doran and Grace Kennedy, Operations Director, stood down after concerns were raised by politicians and staff about changes to the service, including the increasing use of single-staffed ambulance crews. Labour claimed at Holyrood that SNP funding cuts were putting ambulance staff under undue pressure in an attempt to meet efficiency targets.

Kevin Doran was appointed Chief Executive only last November. He was formerly Director of Jobcentre Plus Scotland, the organisation responsible for delivering the government’s employment targets. He is also a member of the Scottish Executive’s Advisory Group on Healthy Working Lives.