Investigation into Ambulance Service
Introduction to the Case
Two ambulances employees were arrested by the police in connection with the death of six adults. The investigation was initiated in 2023, and a man in his thirties from West Wiltshire was arrested on suspicion of six cases of gross negligence and four cases of ill-treatment or willing neglect by a nursing worker.
Arrests and Investigation
A 59-year-old woman was also arrested in March of this year on suspicion of gross lack of negligence. The police have now published details of the investigation and arrests. The two employees of the South Western Ambulance Service were released on bail, according to the Wiltshire police.
Police Statement
The police confirmed that a large investigation is underway in connection with several deaths of adults in and around Wiltshire. The focus of the investigation is on supporting the families and relatives of those who died. The investigation has not yet been completed, and detailed inquiries have been carried out to determine the facts.
Ambulance Service Response
A spokesman for the ambulance service said that an internal examination was initiated as soon as concerns were raised, and the service has been working closely with the police. The two employees were immediately relieved of all duties, including patient care, and one of them is no longer employed by the trust.
Assurance to Patients
The ambulance service assured the public that this is an isolated situation and there is no ongoing risk to patients. The service encouraged people to continue calling 999 in life-threatening emergencies.
Background on Gross Negligence
The criminal offense of gross negligence requires a breach of an existing duty of care, which leads to a serious and obvious risk of death. The South Western Ambulance Service was last inspected by the Care Quality Commission in 2022 and was rated as "good" after making improvements from earlier inspections.
Inspection Ratings
The trust was rated as "outstanding" for care and "good" for its response times, effectiveness, and leadership. The emergency and urgent services were rated as requiring improvement.
