Woman arrested on suspicion of poisoning patients at Blackpool hospital

Police have arrested a healthcare professional at a hospital in Blackpool on suspicion of administering poison to patients.

Lancashire constabulary said they were contacted by Blackpool teaching hospitals NHS foundation trust on 8 November after concerns were raised about the mistreatment and neglect of patients on the stroke unit at Blackpool Victoria hospital.

A female healthcare professional was arrested last week on suspicion of administering poison or a noxious substance with the intent to injure, and ill treatment or wilful neglect. Police said she had been bailed until 6 December. The trust confirmed that the woman had been suspended and sought to reassure patients that the hospital remained safe.

DCI Jill Johnston from Lancashire police said: “This arrest is part of an ongoing investigation into allegations of mistreatment of patients by a healthcare professional at Blackpool Victoria hospital. The inquiry is complicated and we have a team of specialist detectives working on this case who are also offering support to those families who have had loved ones identified as potentially being involved.

“Our priority and the priority of Blackpool teaching hospitals NHS foundation trust is to ensure the safety of patients. We are working closely with the trust as part of the investigation.”

Wendy Swift, chief executive of the foundation trust, said: “We can confirm a healthcare professional has been suspended in line with trust policy following allegations of mistreatment against patients on the stroke unit.

“We take all allegations of this type extremely seriously and when the concerns were raised we immediately contacted the police. The trust is working with the police and cooperating fully with their investigation.

“We would like to reassure all our patients that all necessary actions are being taken. The hospital remains a safe and caring environment for patients and the provision of services will continue as usual.”