Patients of a former consultant surgeon, Leslie Irwin, are facing significant uncertainty after he was placed on a “recall” list by Spire Healthcare, the private healthcare provider where he practiced. Irwin, who had a long career as a surgeon at Sunderland Royal and at Spire Washington Hospital, was suspended two years after retiring from the NHS in 2022. This development has prompted a legal clinic aimed at assisting affected patients.
Last month, Spire Healthcare made public a list of surgeons, including Irwin, suggesting that patients were “invited back for a consultation or to undertake a review of their care.” The situation escalated when Irwin deregistered from the General Medical Council in 2025, which means he can no longer be investigated by the regulatory body.
In response to the unfolding events, law firm Slater and Gordon announced that it would be providing free legal advice to former patients. A clinic is scheduled for February 19, 2025, at the Beacon of Light in Sunderland. Patients can choose to drop in or make an appointment in advance. John Lowther, a specialist clinical negligence solicitor, emphasized the importance of addressing the concerns raised by many former patients of Irwin.
“There are clearly great concerns over the fact that so many former patients of Irwin have come forward,” Lowther stated. “By holding this legal clinic, we want to help people access the legal advice they need to understand their position and determine what next steps may be.” The firm has been actively investigating the issues for several months and aims to support as many patients as possible.
A spokesperson for Spire Healthcare confirmed that they are reviewing specific procedures related to Irwin‘s patients. “We are in direct contact with all relevant patients to review their care and offer support,” the spokesperson said. This review is being conducted in accordance with the NHS England National Quality Board: Recall Framework, a system that Spire Healthcare helped to develop. Patients with questions regarding their care can reach out to a dedicated review team via phone or email.
Furthermore, the South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Trust has also engaged with Spire Healthcare to understand the implications of the patient recall. The Trust is currently assessing which patients may need to be reviewed and plans to contact those individuals directly.
The allegations surrounding Irwin have sparked considerable public interest. His wife has publicly defended him, characterizing the accusations as “a total, complete lie.” She expressed frustration over the regulatory constraints that prevent doctors from responding to such allegations, stating that Irwin was forced to leave the medical register, which she believes unfairly tarnishes his long-standing career.
As the situation develops, many patients are left seeking clarity and support in light of the serious concerns regarding their past care. The legal clinic offered by Slater and Gordon represents an important step for those affected, providing them with an avenue to address their concerns and seek answers.
