What did the independent review find about County Durham and Darlington NHS Trust's breast care?

The review found escalating concerns and clinical failures in the breast surgery service, along with weaknesses in leadership and governance.

Who commissioned the review into the NHS breast service?

The review was commissioned by the County Durham and Darlington NHS Trust itself in March.

What was the response from the NHS trust's chief executive?

The chief executive apologized to affected patients, admitting the trust failed to meet their trust and provide necessary high-quality care.

Home / Health / NHS Breast Care Under Fire: Clinical Failures Emerge

NHS Breast Care Under Fire: Clinical Failures Emerge

26 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Independent review found significant clinical failures in breast surgery.
Weaknesses in leadership and governance were identified over years.
Trust CEO apologized for failing to meet patient trust and care needs.

NHS Breast Care Under Fire: Clinical Failures Emerge

An independent review has revealed "escalating concerns" regarding the breast cancer care service at the County Durham and Darlington NHS Trust. Commissioned in March, the review identified "clinical failures" within the Breast Surgery Service, according to an independent governance advisor's report released this week.

The comprehensive assessment also pointed to persistent "weaknesses in leadership, clinical governance, organisational culture and contract management over many years." These findings suggest systemic issues have impacted patient care for an extended period.

In response, chief executive Steve Russell offered a sincere apology to those patients whose trust was not met. He acknowledged the trust's shortcomings in providing the high-quality care that patients needed and deserved, underscoring the gravity of the situation.