Hospital and manager guilty over patient death

The North East London Foundation NHS Trust and ward manager Benjamin Aninakwa were found guilty of health and safety failings in the case of Alice Figueiredo, who took her own life at Goodmayes Hospital in July 2015. Alice, 22, had a history of mental health issues and had made multiple suicide attempts before her death. The jury deliberated for 24 days, leading to convictions under the Health and Safety at Work Act, though the trust was acquitted of corporate manslaughter. Prosecutors highlighted that Alice had been able to self-harm during her hospital stay, with inadequate recording and assessment of these incidents. Judge Richard Marks KC acknowledged the profound impact of her loss on her family and expressed hope for their solace from the verdict.

The case underscores the critical importance of patient safety measures in mental health facilities. Alice's family had persistently sought answers and accountability regarding her care. This ruling is only the second instance of an NHS trust facing such charges, indicating a shift in accountability standards within the healthcare system.