Helpline opened after hospital rape charge

A 24-hour helpline has been opened at a Surrey hospital after a male nurse was charged with raping a female patient.

The helpline was opened on Monday to assist Surrey Police with their inquiries.

Zamokwakhe Czechos Jali, 32, was charged on 18 May with the rape of a woman at the hospital in March 2003.

He appeared before Guildford Crown Court on Friday 23 May and was released on conditional bail, which included the requirement to live at an address outside Surrey.

We understand that an allegation like this in a hospital environment may cause concern to other patients

Surrey Police

He is due back before Guildford Crown Court on 18 July.

A spokesman for Surrey Police said the helpline had been set up so other individuals could come forward with information relating to the inquiry or concerns about their own care at the hospital.

This was standard police procedure in a case of this nature, he said.

The hospital has volunteered to staff the helpline with experienced nurses round the clock.

Callers will be told that any information given will be passed on to police to help with the inquiry.

A police spokesman said: "We understand that an allegation like this in a hospital environment may cause concern to other patients.

"We would like to reassure the public that at this time police are investigating one allegation involving one member of staff.

"We are working closely with the hospital at this time and staff have been very helpful and supportive of the investigation."

The helpline number is 0800 195 6185, while Surrey Police say anyone who prefers to contact them directly can call 0845 125 2222.