Health and safety watchdog to prosecute NHS trust

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is to prosecute Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT) following an investigation into North Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (NEPUFT).

The watchdog said it had investigated how NEPUFT managed environmental risks from fixed potential ligature points in its inpatient wards between 25 October 2004 and 31 March 2015.

Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust will face a charge under Section 3(1) Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.

The first hearing is due to take place on 12 November 2020 at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court.

Sally Morris, Chief Executive of EPUT, said: “We have been informed that the HSE intends to bring a prosecution against the trust following an investigation into the former North Essex Partnership University NHS Trust.

“As legal proceedings have started, we are restricted in the comments we can make, but I would like to take this opportunity to say our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the families whose loved ones were part of this investigation.

“Safety is our absolute priority and we are continually working to ensure the safest environment possible for our patients.”