Request
I would like to request details of all incidents reported to you that are categorised as Never Events according to the NPSA framework. Please include details as follows of incidents reported since February 2009:
When the incident occurred
Category of the incident (according to Never Event Framework)
Where the incident took place (which hospital)
Action plan submitted by hospital to address failing
Our Response
I refer to your email requesting information in respect of Never Events as classified by the National Patient Safety Agency.
I can confirm in accordance with S.1 (1) of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOIA) that we do not hold current information requested in the detail that you have asked for.
Due to changes placed upon the NHS, the Management of Serious Incidents (including Never Events) was transferred from Strategic Health Authorities (SHAs) to the Commissioning Primary Care Trusts (PCTs).
Whilst NHS East Midlands is still able to view some information on the Strategic Executive Information System (STEIS), it’s remit is to monitor commissioners and not provider organisations. We therefore do not hold the most current information and there is a potential that the information we provide could be inaccurate. We can confirm that we do not hold the investigation reports or action plans.
However, Section 16 of the FOIA places a duty on us to provide as much help and assistance to applicants as possible. As referenced in the NPSA attachment, local PCTs are expected to publish this information in their Annual Reports, so it should already be available to you. If it is not yet available, there is an expectation that PCTs will publish it.
The link below to our website that will enable you to contact our PCTs individually for the information that you require:-
http://www.eastmidlands.nhs.uk/the-local-nhs/nhs-organisations/
I hope that this information is of use. If you are dissatisfied with the way in which we have dealt with your request you can ask us to review our decision by writing to:-
Mr Kevin Orford
Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Finance
NHS East Midlands
Octavia House
Interchange Business Park
Bostock's Lane
Sandiacre
Nottingham
NG10 5QG
If at the conclusion of any review you remain dissatisfied you may complain to the Information Commissioner who can be contacted at:-
The Office of the Information Commissioner
Wycliffe House
Water Lane
Wilmslow
Cheshire
SK9 5AF
