Scandal-hit NHS trust faces corporate manslaughter probe over deaths of hundreds of babies
Detectives launched a criminal investigation in 2023 over allegations of severe harm that allegedly unfolded at Nottingham university hospitals (NUH) NHS trust.
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Nottinghamshire police on Monday revealed that inquiry was now focused on corporate manslaughter.
Police are reviewing more than 200 alleged failures of maternity care at NUH but this figure could rise to about 2,500.
Detective Superintendent Matthew Croome said: "I have now formally commenced the investigation into corporate manslaughter relating to the Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust.
'The offences relate to circumstances where an organisation has been grossly negligent in the management of its activities, which has then led to a person's death.
'In such an investigation, we are looking to see if the overall responsibility lies with the organisation rather than specific individuals.
'My investigation will look to ascertain if there is evidence that the Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust has committed this offence.'
Dr Jack and Sarah Hawkins, who blew the whistle on the maternity scandal after the stillbirth of their daughter Harriet in 2016, said the corporate manslaughter investigation "is just one piece of the jigsaw towards accountability".
They said: "Our lives were completely destroyed by the unimaginable and repeated trauma at the hands of NUH.
"This investigation is just one piece of the jigsaw towards accountability.
"A prosecution for corporate manslaughter will only penalise the trust, not the individuals responsible, many of whom are still working today.
Dozens of babies and mums died in 'worst-ever' NHS maternity scandal, leaked report reveals
"We must never lose sight of individual accountability for those who so cruelly stole not just our daughter's life and voice but many others.
"We will continue to fight for justice, not only for Harriet, but for all those whose lives have shattered."
In a statement, NUH said it was right that the trust took 'organisational accountability where we have failed women, families and babies'.
Nick Carver, the chair, and Anthony May, the chief executive, said: 'We are deeply sorry for the pain and suffering caused. We know that for many families this harm and suffering will be lifelong.'
The bosses said they were fully committed to the ongoing investigations and that since joining the NUH board they had 'emphasised the importance of openness, transparency and accountability' but that 'there is more to do'.
They added: 'Many families have shared their experiences with us, and we remain grateful for their strength and courage after such a harrowing and life affecting tragedy...
'We know how important the police investigation and independent review are for the affected families, the trust and our local communities. We hope that affected families receive the answers that they deserve.'
AN INDEPENDENT review of maternity services at the Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust was launched in 2022.
It is being led by top midwife Donna Ockenden, who also investigated failings at the Shrewsbury and Telford NHS Trust, one of the biggest patient safety scandals in NHS history.
More than 2,000 cases dating back to 2012 are involved in the Nottingham review, which means it could be even worse than Shrewsbury.
Local police are also investigating the services separately from the review.
Families have come forward after hundreds of babies and mums died or were seriously brain damaged or injured while under the care of the Nottingham hospitals.
The review will determine to what extent the deaths and injuries could have been prevented and how shortcomings, errors or negligence by medical and managerial staff at Nottingham City Hospital and Queen's Medical Centre may have contributed to families' suffering.
The review team said: "This Review has been established in light of significant concerns raised regarding the quality and safety of maternity services at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and concerns of local families."
Ms Ockenden is expected to report her findings in 2026.
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