Suspended Hospice Chief Quits Post

The chief executive of St Gemma’s Hospice in Leeds has quit five months after being suspended from his role. It was confirmed that David Parr left by mutual agreement. In August the YEP revealed how Mr Parr had been suspended from the hospice in Moortown to carry out a review into his performance.

St Gemma’s said he had been suspended in April but was not part of disciplinary proceedings and it was being regarded as an “internal matter”. It is believed his initial suspension and subsequent departure from the hospice are down to “performance related issues” involving Mr Parr.

A spokesman for the hospice said today: “Over the past year, St Gemma’s has developed a new five year strategic plan which sets out the key objectives and challenges ahead. The plan builds upon the excellent care already provided to patients and their families. The Hospice has also strengthened its links with local, national and international organisations working at the forefront of palliative care.”

Director of Spiritual Care, Sister Brigid Murphy CP is acting as Chief Executive.

Mr Parr, born in Upper Wortley, Leeds, took over at the hospice in January 2005 after a 40-year career in the NHS which saw him work his way up from trainee nurse to high ranking health service figure.

But the Yorkshire Evening Post can reveal his last role as chief executive of East Kent NHS and Social Care Partnership Trust, for six years, ended in a similar way.

Mr Parr, a former general manager at Pinderfields Hospital in Wakefield, quit in November 2004, 11 months after a shock report questioned senior management’s control of health and safety standards at St Martin’s Hospital, Canterbury.

Unison, the public service union, condemned his handling of mental health services in Canterbury and other parts of east Kent and officials from the union, representing dozens of staff, issued a no confidence vote by an overwhelming majority in a protest letter sent to Mr Parr.

Mr Parr was unavailable for comment last night.