An ambulance worker, Paula Smith, is set to receive approximately £14,000 in compensation after winning a claim against the NHS. This legal victory comes after her spouse, Stacey, viciously attacked their supervisor, Michala Morton, leading to Paula’s unjust dismissal from her position at the North West Ambulance Service Trust.
The incident unfolded when Paula and Stacey, who both worked in patient transport, believed Morton was impeding their ability to coordinate time off together. Despite their grievances against Morton, which were not properly addressed, Paula was not involved in the subsequent violent assault carried out by Stacey with a hammer.
Following the attack, Paula was arrested on suspicion of harassment and threats related to the incident but was later released without charges. Despite this, the Trust initiated dismissal proceedings against her, questioning her trustworthiness due to her association with the assault.
After an unsuccessful appeal, and Stacey’s conviction for attempted murder resulting in a lengthy prison sentence, a tribunal ruled that Paula’s dismissal was unjustified. The judge criticized the Trust for prematurely terminating Paula’s employment and hinted at potential further compensation for her mistreatment.