Concerns over released killer's hospital job (From The Northern Echo)

Concerns over released killer's Durham hospital job

8:30am Thursday 29th November 2012 in News Exclusive By Mark Tallentire, Reporter (Durham)

A UNION says it is extremely concerned after a convicted killer got a job in a public hospital without his employer knowing his horrific past.

Unison chiefs plan to hold talks with their members at the University Hospital of North Durham after it emerged Robert Bage, who stabbed a love rival 40 times with a kitchen knife, worked at the Durham City facility following his release from prison on licence.

Mr Bage worked at the County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust hospital employed by Balfour Beatty Workplace (BBW), the Trust’s Private Finance Initiative (PFI) partner.

In a statement, BBW said it was not made aware of Bage’s convictions during the employment process.

“Once this matter was brought to the attention of BBW, the employee was suspended and an investigation commenced immediately.

“Mr Bage no longer works with BBW,” the statement continued.

It is not known what job Bage had at the hospital but it is believed he worked in the kitchens. BBW said it was a “non-patient facing role”.

However, Sheila Wilson, a regional organiser for Unison, said: “We are extremely concerned that the recruitment process has allowed this to happen.”

Mrs Wilson said she would discuss the matter with Unison members and, if they raised any concerns, take those up with BBW.

Bage was jailed for life for killing 24-year-old Andrew Stanyer on March 2, 1991; having becoming jealous of Mr Stanyer’s relationship with his former partner.

He hid in the loft of her home in Stoke-on-Trent before attacking his rival, stabbing him 40 times – starting when his victim was asleep.

Bage was due to be released on licence in March 2005 and was expected to live in the North-East. He is originally from the Durham area.

At the time, Mr Stanyer’s brother, Alan, said life should mean life and Bage should never be released.

Bage’s current whereabouts are unknown. It is believed he has not worked at the hospital for at least two months.

The Ministry of Justice said it would not comment on individual cases.