Trust investigated for manslaughter over three deaths

A trust is being investigated for manslaughter in relation to the death of three patients, HSJ has learned.

HSJ understands the three patients died by suicide while inpatients at Leicestershire Partnership Trust’s Bradgate Unit, in Glenfield Hospital, between September 2020 and July 2021.

Leicestershire Police confirmed it was investigating “offences relating to corporate manslaughter and gross negligence manslaughter” in relation to the deaths.

A police spokesperson told HSJ: “The investigation remains ongoing. No charges have been brought at this time.”

The trust said: “Leicestershire Partnership Trust is fully cooperating with the police. We are unable to comment any further while the investigation is ongoing.”

It comes as an employment tribunal brought by Mariam Benaris, previously a consultant at the unit, who is alleging wrongful dismissal, has heard concerns about safety on the unit during the peaks of the pandemic.

Dr Benaris told the tribunal she and other staff raised concerns with trust leaders and a healthcare regulator about unsafe practices at the Beaumont Ward of the Bradgate Unit at that time. The ward was being used for all new admissions as part of infection control procedures. 

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Source: HSJ, 2 May 2025