Deaths, injuries at UK NHS trust under police scrutiny

LONDON

A police inquiry into allegations of preventable deaths and injuries at University Hospitals Sussex NHS Trust has expanded significantly, with the number of cases under review more than doubling, according to British media on Tuesday.

BBC News has reported that the investigation, which Sussex Police began in 2023, initially focused on 105 cases.

However, the force is now examining over 200 cases. The allegations involve care and treatment provided by the trust between 2015 and 2021.

Police launched the inquiry following serious concerns raised by two whistleblowers, who alleged medical negligence within the trust’s neurosurgery and general surgery departments. Their claims highlighted issues involving at least 40 deaths.

The rise in the number of cases stems from additional families coming forward to police with allegations linked to treatment at the trust.

While Sussex Police confirmed the investigation remains "active and ongoing," they declined to disclose specific details about case numbers at this stage.

The University Hospitals Sussex NHS Trust acknowledged that its neurosurgery team has faced substantial challenges since 2012, resulting in some patients waiting longer than appropriate for their care. The trust expressed a sincere apology for these delays.

In response to the situation, the trust stated that it is fully cooperating with the ongoing police investigation and recognizes the need for significant improvement in its performance.

Chief Executive George Findlay noted that since the installation of a new leadership team in 2017, the trust has made considerable progress in enhancing quality and safety standards.