As a family grapples with the long-term trauma of surviving a brutal attack in Southport, new allegations have emerged that North West Ambulance Service staff may have betrayed their trust by accessing sensitive medical records. The claims have been met with outrage from one father, who has spoken out about the devastating impact this has had on his family's private life.
The issue came to light after documents provided by NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool Group revealed that nearly 50 staff members at Aintree Hospital – where some victims received treatment – had improperly viewed medical records in the days following the attack. The incident, which occurred on July 29th, 2024, left a community reeling. North West Ambulance Service is now investigating whether fewer than ten of its own staff may have also accessed patient information without authorisation.
The family at the centre of the allegations has expressed deep dismay and frustration over what they claim is a breach of trust during an already difficult time. The father, whose daughter was 13 when she suffered stab wounds to her back and arm, feels that the trusts involved have been slow to disclose this information, only confirming it two years after the incident through their own investigations.
Leanne Lucas, another survivor of the attack, has described herself as "devastated" by the latest revelations. She, like many others, is now awaiting confirmation from North West Ambulance Service about whether her medical records were also accessed without authorisation. Ms Lucas hopes for a thorough investigation and full transparency for all those affected, alongside robust measures to prevent future occurrences.
Lawyers representing 22 survivors, including the injured girl, are pushing for NHS England to conduct a comprehensive review of existing guidance on staff accessing patient data. North West Ambulance Service chief executive Salman Desai has confirmed an investigation into "potential inappropriate access to patient records". However, solicitors Fletchers have indicated that the trust is reportedly not pursuing disciplinary action.