Summary
A corporate manslaughter investigation has started into the deaths and injuries of hundreds of babies at maternity units in Nottingham overseen by the Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust. Police are investigating whether the trust was grossly negligent, focusing on two specific maternity units. The investigation follows a large inquiry into the trust's maternity services involving about 2,500 cases of harm to mothers and babies.
Key Facts
- A corporate manslaughter investigation is underway regarding babies' deaths and injuries at Nottingham maternity units.
- Nottinghamshire Police are assessing if the Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust was grossly negligent.
- The trust is already part of the largest maternity inquiry in NHS history, reviewing around 2,500 cases.
- The investigation focuses on maternity units at Queen's Medical Centre and Nottingham City Hospital.
- In April 2026, a report on the trust’s maternity failings is expected from independent midwife Donna Ockenden.
- Over 200 family cases have been referred to the police investigation, called Operation Perth.
- The trust was fined £1.6 million for avoidable failings related to three baby deaths in 2021.
- The trust has committed to cooperating with the police investigation and improving maternity services.
