Investigation into University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust
By Tamlin Bolton
The University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust (UHS) is under extensive investigation amid serious allegations of medical negligence . Information and guidance for former patients.
Operation Bramber, an investigation by Sussex Police, has expanded to include over 200 cases of preventable deaths and life-changing injuries between 2015 and 2021. The cases focus on the neurosurgery and general surgery departments in particular. These troubling allegations raise critical concerns about patient safety and governance within the Trust.
Families of affected patients and whistleblowers have come forward, calling for accountability and expressing deep concern about the standard of care provided.
Background
The investigation began after two consultant surgeons raised concerns about alleged medical negligence in the general and neurosurgery departments. These initial allegations have since revealed systemic issues across the hospital, with tragic reports of preventable deaths and serious injuries.
Among the most distressing cases being investigated are:
Post-surgical complications : A patient died following a routine surgery after post-operative complications were not addressed promptly, despite clear signs of distress.
Neurosurgical errors : Several patients were left with permanent disabilities due to alleged errors during neurosurgical procedures, including improper spinal surgeries and delays in addressing intraoperative complications.
Failure to recognise critical conditions : A patient suffered a fatal cardiac event after their deteriorating condition went unrecognised for hours, despite repeated calls for help from nursing staff.
Unorthodox and unsafe practices : Reports include a surgeon using a penknife to open a patient’s chest and a consultant performing an emergency operation within a self-imposed, arbitrary 45-minute time limit.
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) previously rated aspects of the Trust as “inadequate,” particularly in surgical safety. Whistleblowers have also highlighted insufficient staffing, inadequate training, and a failure to adhere to safety protocols—factors that reportedly created an environment where avoidable harm became far too common.
Implications for former patients
If you received treatment at any of the hospitals under UHS between 2015 and 2021 and have concerns about your care, this investigation could be highly relevant.
Evidence of systemic failings suggests that many patients may have been harmed due to preventable lapses in care.
You may have questions about your legal rights if you believe you or a loved one has been affected. Understanding your options is essential in navigating this challenging situation.
Legal considerations
Former patients who suspect they have been impacted by negligent care may wish to explore the following legal options:
Medical negligence claims : If you experienced harm due to substandard care, you may be eligible to claim compensation. Consulting a specialist medical negligence solicitor can help you assess the strength of your case and guide you through the process.
Statute of limitations : Generally, you have three years from the date of the incident, or from when you became aware of the harm, to pursue a legal claim. Exceptions may apply, particularly for minors or those who discovered the harm later.
Group actions: Given the scale of the allegations, you may have the option to join a group action, which could provide a more collective and accessible route to justice.
Other issues at UHS
The investigation into UHS is not limited to surgical care. The Trust has faced criticism in other areas, including:
Maternity services : Separate inquiries have uncovered concerns about inadequate care in maternity units, leading to cases of harm and maternal distress.
Staffing shortages : Reports of chronic understaffing and burnout among frontline workers have highlighted the broader challenges affecting patient care.
Culture of fear : Whistleblowers describe a workplace culture where staff felt unable to raise concerns about patient safety without fear of reprisal.
Next steps for former patients
If you believe you may have been affected by the care you received at UHS, consider taking the following steps:
Document your experience : Collect relevant medical records, correspondence, and personal notes about your treatment. Creating a detailed timeline of events can be invaluable.
Seek legal advice : Contact a solicitor specialising in medical negligence to explore your options. They can provide tailored advice on pursuing compensation and holding the Trust accountable.
Connect with support networks : Advocacy groups and patient support organisations can offer guidance, resources, and emotional support to help you through this process.
Conclusion
The investigation into UHS underscores the importance of robust patient safety measures and accountability within the healthcare system. The accounts of preventable harm and systemic failings highlight the urgent need for change to ensure such tragedies do not occur again.
If you or a loved one have been affected, seeking legal advice promptly can help protect your rights.
The Switalskis team are here to provide compassionate, expert support to guide you through this challenging time.
Contact us to discuss your concerns confidentially and explore your options for justice. Call 0800 138 0458 or email help@switalskis.com
For updates on the investigation, refer to trusted news sources such as BBC News and The Guardian.
Tamlin has been in the legal sector for over eight years. She is a Senior Associate Solicitor in our Medical Negligence team.
