A retired nurse involved in exposing Jimmy Savile's abuse at Broadmoor psychiatric hospital is engaged in a legal dispute with the NHS over his family home, which he has occupied for 40 years. Keith Palmer, 72, faces eviction from the NHS-owned property in Crowthorne, Berkshire, after receiving a notice to quit in January 2024.
Palmer, who worked as a senior nurse at Broadmoor between 1976 and 2014, was granted a tenancy for the house on the hospital estate in November 1988. He was a key figure in a 2014 Panorama documentary that revealed Savile's extensive access and inappropriate behavior within the hospital. An NHS report following Savile's death in 2011 concluded he had sexually abused five victims at Broadmoor, where he had a dedicated room and office.
Palmer lives in the house with his wife, Jacqueline, their daughter, and grandchild. He has refused to leave the property, leading the West London National Health Service Trust to file a court claim for possession. The Trust's barrister, Nicholas Grundy, informed the High Court that the NHS became Palmer's landlord in 2001 when it took over management of the special hospital.
Grundy argued that Palmer's occupation was not a protected tenancy when it began, suggesting he has no permanent right to remain. He also claimed that Palmer forfeited any long-term occupation rights by failing to pay rent. According to the Trust, rent was increased from £750 to £950 per month in June 2021, and Palmer has since fallen behind by approximately £12,000.
Representing Palmer, Martin Young disputed the claims of significant rent arrears. Young asserted that Palmer's tenancy is protected under the 1977 Rent Act and that the rent was never properly registered or agreed upon. He also contended that any rent increases after June 2018 were not legally authorized by the Secretary of State. Furthermore, Young argued that Palmer should not be held responsible for outstanding utility bills until an issue with an overflowing septic tank is resolved.
Palmer stated he is disappointed with his former employers, claiming he only fell behind on rent after the unlawful increase. He also suggested that evicting him would violate his right to a settled family life under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights, highlighting recent health issues including a minor stroke and high blood pressure.
Savile's involvement with Broadmoor began in 1968, with hospital management endorsing his presence to boost morale. Despite his public image, an inquiry found his fundraising efforts were minor, and he used his hospital accommodation and a caravan to entertain female visitors. He was given keys and free access to ward areas, and by the late 1980s, he held a managerial role on the hospital's task force, referred to as 'Dr Savile.' Broadmoor has previously housed notable figures such as Ian Brady and Ronnie Kray.
The High Court trial is ongoing.