Police to launch inquiry into maternity unit deaths

A police investigation is to be launched into failings that led to dozens of baby deaths and injuries at a hospital trust.

The maternity units at Nottingham University Hospitals (NUH) NHS Trust are already being examined in a review by senior midwife Donna Ockenden.

The review will become the largest ever carried out in the UK, with about 1,800 families affected.

Nottinghamshire Police said its decision to investigate followed discussions with Ms Ockenden.

Her team is looking into failings that led to babies dying or being injured at Nottingham City Hospital and the Queen's Medical Centre.

Chief Constable Kate Meynell said: "On Wednesday I met with Donna Ockenden to discuss her independent review into maternity cases of potentially significant concern at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust (NUH) and to build up a clearer picture of the work that is taking place.

"We want to work alongside the review but also ensure that we do not hinder its progress.

"However, I am in a position to say we are preparing to launch a police investigation.

"I have appointed the Assistant Chief Constable, Rob Griffin, to oversee the preparations and the subsequent investigation."

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Source: BBC News, 7 September 2023