NHS managers deny intimidation

Bassetlaw Labour MP John Mann says he has received a number of messages from staff, including doctors, nurses and managers, at Doncaster and Bassetlaw trust raising concerns about the future of Bassetlaw hospital. All said they feared for their positions if they spoke out over trust plans which campaigners say will see Accident and Emergency and maternity services downgraded in moves that Mr Mann warns are "tantamount to creating a cottage hospital".

Yesterday managers said they were "very concerned" about the allegations.

"We have a number of ways in which staff can legitimately and freely raise their concerns including a whistleblowing policy.

"We also urge staff to raise any concerns they may have through their trade union or staff organisation and to ensure that those organisations bring concerns to the attention of the board of directors or others outside the trust," they added.