Criminal Investigation into Maternity Failings at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust to Commence in Spring 2024
Following concerns raised about severe harm and deaths in relation to maternity care provision at the Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust (NUHT), Nottinghamshire Police have announced that a criminal investigation will be launched. The investigation will focus on the care of mothers and babies at NUHT, which is currently also under review by an independent panel led by Donna Ockenden. However, the bulk of the criminal investigation is not expected to begin until next year, with Assistant Chief Constable Robert Griffin stating that it could be several months before the investigative work commences.
Speaking about the investigation, Griffin assured the public that the police approach would be underpinned by compassion, care, and candor towards those affected. He emphasized the importance of having the right infrastructure in place to support the investigation before starting the investigative work. As a result, no contact will be made with affected families prior to the spring of 2024, and this is likely to be followed by a significant period without contact. The police will work alongside Donna Ockenden to ensure the appropriate handling of family contact and will not share any identifiable information without the consent of the affected families.
In September, the chief executive of NUHT, Anthony May OBE, committed to fully cooperating with the police investigation. May also reiterated the commitment made to the families affected by the care failings, stating that the trust would maintain an honest and transparent relationship with them. In the meantime, NUHT will continue its maternity improvement program, focusing on changes in staffing levels, training, compliance with guidelines, record keeping, and the provision and use of equipment. The Care Quality Commission recently published reports on the maternity services, showing improvement from an inadequate to a requires improvement rating, reflecting the progress made.
This criminal investigation is running parallel to the independent review led by Donna Ockenden, which is set to be the largest maternity review in NHS history. The review will encompass approximately 1,800 families and 700 staff members, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of the maternity care provided at NUHT.
The investigation and review come as families affected by the alleged care failings at NUHT have highlighted the need for a criminal inquiry into the matter. By launching a criminal investigation, the authorities aim to address their concerns and provide a thorough examination of the maternity care provided by the trust.
The delay in commencing the investigation may lead to frustration among the affected families who have been eagerly awaiting progress. However, it is essential to establish a robust foundation for the investigation, ensuring appropriate and professional handling of the case. The collaborative efforts between the police, Donna Ockenden’s review team, and NUHT demonstrate a commitment to transparency and accountability in addressing the maternity failings that have occurred.
As the investigation and review unfold, it is hoped that both processes will provide clarity, answers, and justice for the families affected by the alleged maternity failings. The focus on improving maternity services and the commitment to co-operating with the investigation highlight the determination to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future, ultimately ensuring the safety and well-being of mothers and babies under the care of NUHT.
