A rapid review ordered by the government has identified serious issues at the Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust following the Nottingham attacks, prompting calls for urgent improvements and a public inquiry.
A government-ordered rapid review has highlighted significant concerns about care and patient safety at the Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, following the tragic Nottingham attacks by Valdo Calocane, a patient treated for paranoid schizophrenia. The Care Quality Commission (CQC) pointed out enduring issues, particularly at Rampton Hospital, and urged for immediate improvements to ensure the safety and well-being of patients. Health Secretary Victoria Atkins called for action to rectify failings related to demand management, staffing, and leadership at the trust.
Amidst these concerns, families of Calocane’s victims, including James Coates, whose father was killed, are seeking tougher measures and accountability, advocating for a sentence that reflects the gravity of the acts committed by Calocane. They are also calling for a public inquiry to investigate the systemic failures that led to the attacks, emphasizing the need for justice and reforms in law enforcement and mental health services.
The CQC’s findings reveal pressing issues within the trust, such as access to care, staff shortages, and variations in care quality, that pose risks not only to patient safety but also to the public. Recommendations were made for the trust, including a proposal for a restricted relicensing period for Rampton Hospital to address these concerns comprehensively.
Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust has recognised the need for improvement, with Chief Executive Ifti Majid committing to high-quality care and detailing ongoing enhancements like staff recruitment and crisis line services. The trust is now under national oversight to expedite necessary reforms and ensure the delivery of safe and effective mental health services.
