IT HAS been described as one of the worst scandals in the history of the NHS.

Hundreds of patients died because of “appalling” failings at Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust, a public report confirmed yesterday.

Inquiry chairman Robert Francis QC, pictured, called for a “zero tolerance” approach to poor standards of healthcare and made a total of 290 sweeping recommendations.

Now health leaders have pledged a review of the proposals.

Director of Nursing, Paula Shobbrook, said: “Quality of care and patient safety is our number one priority at The Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. We are committed to putting patients first, delivering care with compassion; and providing dignity and respect for our patients.

“We are proud of the services we provide and of our staff. The public can be reassured that they have excellent local hospitals. We are not complacent, however, and the Board will continue to listen to our patients and staff to ensure the best outcomes and personal experience.”

Martin Smits, director of nursing and patient services at Poole said: “The Francis report is an important and detailed piece of work, and we will be reviewing it fully.”

Chief officer of Age UK Bournemouth, David Leighton, welcomed the concept of specialist nurses for the elderly but added: “It will only be effective if they are given the authority to implement change otherwise they could be given a poisoned chalice.”

Cllr Charles Meachin, chairman of the Health and Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee for Poole said: “We are very fortunate in Poole to have such high standards of health provision. But it is important not to become complacent.”