Dr Jenny Vaughan OBE

Local Fulham resident, Jenny Vaughan, died from breast cancer on 31st March 2024 (Easter Sunday) aged 55. She was nationally and internationally well known for her fearless challenges to injustice, especially in healthcare, for which she was awarded an OBE in 2023.

Jenny was a consultant neurologist, specialising in the treatment of movement disorders, but also served as a councillor in Hammersmith & Fulham from 1998-2006. She brough her passion for bringing change and her medical expertise together as chair of the LBHF Health & Social Care Scrutiny Panel and played a significant role in the campaigns to prevent the closure of Charing Cross Hospital and Ealing Hospital.

Jenny rose to particular prominence when she spearheaded the appeal against the conviction and imprisonment of Ealing consultant surgeon David Sellu. Despite having no legal training and against all odds, she doggedly pursued his cause to the High Court, which overturned his conviction. Other similar successes followed. With the Doctors Association UK (DAUK), Jenny campaigned to encourage a "Learn not blame" culture in the NHS and was often featured on TV or national radio especially during the COVID Pandemic.

After Jenny had to give up NHS work due to her illness, she found gardening at home and at Fulham Palace Allotments particularly therapeutic, often inviting friends to share her pleasure in growing flowers and vegetables. It also introduced her to many new friends and neighbours. She would be delighted to have a local community garden, accessible to all, as one of her many legacies.

To read more about Dr Jenny Vaughan OBE, click here.