RCN calls for an independent inquiry at Mid-Staffs

Published: 15 April 2009

The Royal College of Nursing has called for a full independent inquiry into the failings at Mid-Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust. The RCN has said that whilst the inquiry does not need to be held in public but the findings should be reported publically.

RCN Chief Executive & General Secretary, Dr Peter Carter said:

"We feel it is in everyone's interests if there is a full independent inquiry. We do not think it needs to be held in public, because people can often be more forthcoming if they are not appearing in some kind of 'star chamber'. The important thing is that it is totally independent and reports its findings publicly."

The RCN had previously described the Healthcare Commission's investigation into emergency care at Mid-Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust as 'shocking' and said that the poor standards of care at the Trust were a result of placing more importance in money saving measures than providing quality patient care.