Penny Senner was employed by Dorset Healthcare University NHS Foundation Trust when she made the comments.

The panel heard Senner told a patient on 15 August 2023 who had taken the Covid vaccine: ‘that's what caused your cancer'.

Senner was also found to have distributed anti-vaccination information and/or leaflets to patients.

In addition, the hearing found Senner accessed numerous patients' records without authorisation and/or a legitimate clinical reason between 17 January 2023 and 31 May 2024.

Dawn Dawson, chief nursing officer at Dorset HealthCare, said: ‘As soon as we became aware of Ms Senner's actions, she was immediately suspended. We carried out an internal investigation, and her case was referred to the Nursing and Midwifery Council. Ms Senner no longer works for us.

‘The NHS delivers millions of vaccinations every year, which are an essential part of protecting the public against a range of serious illnesses.

‘It is also completely unacceptable for a member of staff to access patient records without authorisation or a legitimate clinical reason.

‘We welcome the NMC's ruling in this case, and deeply regret the distress and worry experienced by the patient involved.'