Ombudsman sceptical about ‘transparency’ of investigations into NHS trust – BBC Newsnight

For the past six months, Newsnight has been investigating allegations of a “toxic, mafia-like” culture at one of the country’s biggest hospital trusts.

In a number of films over that time we’ve spoken to serving and former clinicians, whistle blowers and have heard from those who claim to have been punished for raising patient safety concerns – an accusation the Trust in question, University Hospitals Birmingham denies.

In response to our investigation – with BBC West Midlands colleagues – the NHS announced three reviews into patient safety, culture, and leadership. But while there have been calls from campaigners and politicians for a more independent, judge led inquiry, there has been no significant intervention from regulators, ministers or watchdogs, until now.

In an exclusive interview, safety investigator the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman – the last port of call for people unhappy with the NHS in England – tells Newsnight of his serious concerns about the different probes, and his difficulties investigating University Hospitals Birmingham.

Newsnight’s Chief Correspondent David Grossman reports.

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