NHS trust 
accused 
over 2,500 
deaths

Basildon Hospital in Essex is one of 14 NHS trusts being investigated over higher than expected death ratios in the wake of the Stafford Hospital scandal, also including North Lincolnshire NHS Trust, and lawyers say claims from Basildon patients echo those seen previously in Staffordshire.

Last November the Care Quality Commission (CQC) performed an unannounced inspection at Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust following the death of a girl and a medication overdose of a baby.

The CQC found that “rapid and sustainable improvement” was needed and ordered an independent investigation into the paediatric services which found problems with waiting times, the numbers of senior staff and out-of-date medicines.

Previously, the trust was issued a warning by the health watchdog ordering it to make improvements following inspections of the accident and emergency department and adult wards.

A spokesman for Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said of the new allegations: “A number of immediate improvements in the delivery of care to our patients have been made but we want to improve further.

“To do this we need to listen and learn and would urge anyone who is unhappy with their treatment, or that of a relative, to let us know immediately.”

Emma Jones of law firm Leigh Day, who represented 120 victims of abuse at Stafford Hospital, is investigating 10 separate allegations of abuse at Basildon Hospital.

She said: “There does appear to be a significant issue at Basildon Hospital based on the number of inquiries we have received.

“We are working hard with our clients and those groups committed to patient safety to ensure these allegations of abuse are thoroughly investigated.”