Two men arrested over hospital mortuary practices

Police investigating maternity failings in Nottingham have arrested two men in connection with operating practices in the city's mortuary service.

Nottingham University Hospitals (NUH) NHS Trust operates mortuary services at the Queen's Medical Centre and Nottingham City Hospital under a licence provided by the Human Tissue Authority.

Nottinghamshire Police said two men, 55 and 59, were arrested on suspicion of misconduct in a public office on Monday.

The force added the arrests were carried out as part of Operation Perth, which began in 2023 following failings that led to hundreds of babies dying or being injured.

The investigation has run alongside the largest maternity inquiry in the history of the NHS, led by independent senior midwife Donna Ockenden.

Ockenden's review, which involves about 2,500 cases, began in September 2022 after allegations of harm to mothers and babies.

Operation Perth discovered breaches of regulations of the Human Tissue Act in relation to the management and operating practices of the mortuary services, police added.

Deputy Chief Constable Rob Griffin said: "We recognise this will be particularly distressing for affected families who are part of Operation Perth.

"We have contacted the families who we have already identified as being directly impacted by the issues established within the NUH trust mortuaries. As the investigation progresses, we will contact other families who have been directly affected as soon as they are identified.

"If you wish to speak with us, please make contact with us by calling 0115 844 5002 or email OPPerth@Notts.Police.uk.

"Extensive support also remains available through the Operation Perth page on the Nottinghamshire Police website."

Manjeet Shehmar, medical director at NUH, said: "We are aware that two people have been arrested in connection with operating practices in our mortuary service.

"We take concerns around practice in our services extremely seriously and will co-operate fully to ensure a thorough investigation can take place.

"Should anyone have any concerns about their care or the care of their loved ones, support remains available to all through our Patient Liaison Service (PALs)."

Police launched a corporate manslaughter case in June last year as part of Operation Perth.

The General Medical Council (GMC) and Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) are also investigating allegations against individual staff.

Ockenden's report about maternity services at NUH will be published on Wednesday.

Listen to BBC Radio Nottingham on Sounds and follow BBC Nottingham on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2210.