Sexual abuse reports increase at Staffordshire and Cheshire NHS trusts

Recent data reveals a concerning rise in sexual abuse allegations at Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust over the last three years.

According to figures obtained through a Freedom of Information request by Sexual Abuse Compensation Advice, the Mid Cheshire trust logged a total of 82 allegations between 2022/23 and 2024/25.

Patients under the care of Leighton Hospital, Victoria Infirmary, and Elmhurst Intermediate Care Centre reported most complaints, with a sharp rise from 14 allegations in 2022/23 to 26 in 2024/25.

Similarly, University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust saw almost 50 incidents recorded in 2024/25 alone. The trust, which runs Royal Stoke University Hospital and Stafford Hospital, noted a disturbing increase in sexual safety incidents from nine allegations in 2022/23 to 28 in 2023/24.

Across the two trusts, a total of 155 incidents were recorded over the three years, highlighting a pressing need for action within healthcare environments.

• Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust recorded 82 allegations over three years.
• University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust recorded 73 incidents over the same period.

Within the reports, there were reports involving patients accusing staff of sexual harassment or inappropriate sexual conduct. A small number of staff received formal sanctions for their behaviour.

• Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust: Over the three-year period, seven staff members were disciplined, and one was dismissed in relation to a sexual offence.
• University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust: Over the same period, two dozen employees were disciplined in relation to a sexual offence, but eight were dismissed.

Jane Haire, chief people officer at University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM), said: “We take all allegations relating to sexual safety extremely seriously. Every report is fully investigated and appropriate action is taken in line with our safeguarding and disciplinary procedures, including referral to external authorities where necessary.

“The safety of our patients, visitors and staff is our top priority and we encourage anyone with concerns to come forward so they can be addressed quickly.”

A spokesperson for Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said: "We have a zero-tolerance approach to any form of sexual harassment, abuse or inappropriate sexual behaviour towards patients, visitors or staff.

"As a Trust signed up to the NHS Sexual Safety in Healthcare Charter, we are committed to actively tackling sexual harassment and abuse and ensuring clear, accessible reporting mechanisms are in place.

"When concerns are raised, they are taken extremely seriously. We investigate promptly and thoroughly, take appropriate action to protect those affected, provide support where needed and work closely with the police and partner agencies where required.

"Every concern raised represents a person’s lived experience, and we are committed to creating an environment where everyone feels safe, respected and confident to speak up.”

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