Learning from deaths
We have a robust process in place at the Trust to make sure we review deaths that happen in our care. This helps us to learn from deaths and make improvements if we need to.
We follow the national guidance on learning from deaths in the NHS. We do this through our Mortality Review Group.
Our Mortality Review Group makes sure we have systems to monitor and report on deaths. It helps the Board understand how we monitor deaths, the measures we use and why they matter. The group also shares what it learns from reviews, so local care is safe and effective.
- Looks at national rules on death reviews and makes sure local strong systems are in place.
- Helps to shape policy and practice so our death reviews lead to better patient care.
- Assures the Board that the Trust review processes work well and staff know their role.
- Makes sure we look at any differences in death rates and understand these in the right way.
- Provides a report to the Trust Board every three months on death reviews. You can read the Trust Board reports here.
In 2024, there was a change in the law. This means that all deaths in any healthcare setting must now have a review. This covers all people who die in hospital, in a nursing or care home, or a hospice.
For some deaths, the Coroner will need to investigate. For all other deaths, there must be a review by a Medical Examiner. This is most deaths. Once the review is complete, a death certificate can be issued.
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