Nursing firm cuts loss after its worst year
PETER Sullivan, chairman of troubled nursing recruitment agency Healthcare Locums, described last year as the “nadir” in its fortunes despite narrowing its losses.
The firm, which came close to collapse last year following the discovery of accounting irregularities, posted a pre-tax loss of £12.9m, down from £63.6m in 2010.
Last year the entire board was replaced and founder Kate Bleasdale, the former executive vice-chairman, was sacked. She is now demanding £12m in damages, claiming unfair dismissal, victimisation and sex discrimination and a tribunal hearing is due to take place later this month. Healthcare Locums said in its report that it would “vigorously” defend itself against the charges.
The firm rejoined AIM in September after being suspended for nine months.
It has now refinanced and appointed new directors.