Fitness to practise investigation dismissed following Healthcare Regulatory team’s advice

A healthcare student approached HCR Law’s Healthcare Regulatory team after being made the subject of a University Fitness to Practise (“FTP”) investigation.

The student faced several allegations, varying in severity, and was invited to an FTP meeting with the investigating officer. The team worked alongside the student, assisting them to prepare a script in advance of the meeting and provided advice on the relevant documents to be submitted to the University.

Regrettably, the University still decided to refer this matter to the FTP hearing. The team remained instructed and assisted the student to challenge the witness evidence relied on by the University. They also reminded the University of the relevant case law surrounding impairment of FTP and provided further advice regarding relevant documents to be submitted.

Owing to the Healthcare Regulatory team’s involvement, the most serious allegation was withdrawn and whilst the remaining allegations went to the Head of School for consideration, the matter was subsequently dismissed as current impairment was not found.

Following the case, Nicola Wheater, Associate in the Healthcare Regulatory team, said: “University can be a very stressful time without added complications brought about by Fitness to Practise investigations and hearings. I’m pleased that we were able to assist the student in this case and that the matter was dismissed.”