AN independent review into allegations of a bullying culture at a Scottish health board is to be conducted by a top QC.

John Sturrock QC will lead the review into concerns at NHS Highland and report back to the Scottish government early next year.

Senior clinicians at NHS Highland raised concerns in September over a “long-standing bullying culture” which they allege is damaging patient care – claims the board’s medical director Dr Rod Harvey said he did “not recognise.”

The four NHS Highland doctors went public with their fears in a letter to the Herald newspaper, accusing bosses of suppressing criticism and creating a “culture of fear and intimidation” lasting more than a decade.

Mr Harvey said the board takes such allegations “extremely seriously” and any complaints are fully investigated.

Health Secretary Jeane Freeman previously requested an independent review takes place to examine the allegations.

Announcing Mr Sturrock’s appointment on Friday, the Scottish government said it will give current and former staff members who have raised concerns the chance to discuss them with an impartial third party.

Mr Sturrock said: “These are difficult and sensitive issues. I know from my work as a mediator how important it is to listen to people's concerns.”

Meanwhile, NHS Scotland chief executive Paul Gray has written to the health board to offer an increased level of support to help it recover its financial position and implement agreed changes to governance.

NHS Highland has a projected deficit of £19.9 million for the current financial year.

Ms Freeman welcomed the appointment, saying: “These are serious allegations, and it is clearly important to me that we establish exactly what the underlying issues are so I can decide on any actions that might be necessary.”