After retiring from GP partnership in 2012, Dr Liddle – known as Brian – was drawn back into work two years later, serving patients at CBC Health, a not-for-profit federation of general practices in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear. He takes on shifts at all four of CBC’s general practices, across out-ofhours, extended access and walk-in services, serves on its management team to support salaried and sessional GPs and nursing staff, and is the organisation’s safeguarding lead, also acting as a representative on Gateshead local authority’s adult and children’s safeguarding boards.
He was the brains behind ward rounds in local nursing and residential homes – an initiative that has now become widespread. The result has been improved care for residents and their families, and access to clinical support for care home staff.
Moreover, Dr Liddle introduced a mass ‘flu day’ in a church hall to provide easy, convenient access to essential vaccinations among at-risk groups. Under his leadership and supported by fellow GPs, the successful campaign saw a high take-up of the jab, and it continues to this day.
What colleagues say: ‘Brian has worked tirelessly to improve standards in patient care for many years. He has earned the respect of his colleagues and is a real asset to Gateshead’ Dr Steve Kirk, lead GP, Gateshead GP Federation
