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NUH Maternity Files Deleted: Probe Reveals 'Selective Deletion'
7 Nov
Summary
- Hundreds of maternity case files were methodically and selectively deleted at NUH.
- The individual who deleted the files could not be identified by any investigation.
- A second data incident in August 2026 overwrote further maternity records.
An independent investigation has concluded that hundreds of maternity case files at Nottingham University Hospitals (NUH) NHS Trust were 'methodically and selectively deleted'. Following a police inquiry into a data breach that occurred in July 2024, investigators were unable to identify the individual responsible for the deletion.
Families affected by maternity failings expressed deep concern that patient data was intentionally removed, with the deletion potentially linked to scrutiny of historic record-keeping. The investigation also noted that the deletion could have been intended to create the impression that another person was responsible.
A subsequent data incident in August 2026 saw further maternity records overwritten during technical work. While this was attributed to a technical error and not malicious intent, it caused additional distress to families already impacted by previous failings.
NUH has apologized for both incidents, stating that immediate steps were taken upon awareness of the breaches. Investigations by Nottinghamshire Police and independent barristers confirmed the deliberate nature of the 2024 deletion but could not identify the culprit. Recommendations from both investigations are being implemented to improve record-keeping and prevent future occurrences.
