Heart surgeon with ‘god complex’ jailed for sexual assaults on colleagues

A top heart surgeon has been jailed for six years after sexually assaulting five female colleagues.

Dr Amal Bose, a former consultant and head of cardiovascular surgery at Blackpool Victoria Hospital, preyed on younger, junior staff members, many of whom said they felt unable to report his behaviour due to his senior position and influence within the hospital.

The 12 counts of sexual assault included groping and inappropriate touching, as well as repeated sexualised comments and harassment over five years between 2017 and 2022.

Victims described a culture where Bose’s conduct was well known but rarely challenged. One woman said she was advised by colleagues on how to “handle” him when she joined the hospital.

Several of the women continue to experience the psychological effects of the abuse, including panic attacks, anxiety and trauma. Two left their jobs as a result. One victim said she had been targeted over three years and now requires ongoing therapy.

During the trial at Preston Crown Court, the judge described Bose as having a “god complex” and said he had used his authority to “facilitate [his] sexual offending”. The court also heard Bose showed no genuine remorse and attempted to downplay his actions as “just flirting”.

Bose, 55, was convicted in June this year and was sentenced this month to six years in prison and placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life.

The court also heard concerns from victims about the response from management at Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Some said they felt unsupported and blamed for not speaking up sooner.

Bose has not worked at the hospital since December 2022. The Trust has since issued a statement expressing its support for the victims and its cooperation with the police investigation.

For individuals affected by sexual abuse, whether in the past or more recently, coming forward can feel daunting, but there are routes to justice and support.

At Bolt Burdon Kemp, we recognise how difficult it can be to speak out about abuse. Our dedicated team offers free, compassionate legal advice and is here to support you every step of the way as you seek justice and recognition. Survivors deserve to be heard, believed and empowered as they seek accountability and closure.