Claire Levene
Solicitor
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By Georgia Anderson Solicitor | Medical Negligence
Failures in County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust Breast Cancer Service
Breast cancer services at County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust have come under scrutiny following an independent review that identified significant failings in patient care over a number of years.
The failures identified were systemic, with weaknesses across governance, leadership, culture, and clinical processes, exacerbated by repeated missed opportunities for earlier intervention.
Key Findings of the Review
The original review period from 2018 to 2024 was extended to cover 2012 to 2025 to ensure that key milestones and persistent issues predating the initial timeframe were captured.
The independent review found that more than 200 patients may have experienced some level of harm linked to the systemic failures within the breast surgery service.
The failures meant that some women under the care of County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust were not treated compassionately, experienced delayed diagnoses, underwent unnecessary surgery, and were not offered the full range of treatment options.
One of the most concerning findings was that mastectomy rates at the Trust were significantly higher than national averages. Some patients were not offered less invasive treatment options and subsequently underwent unnecessary surgical procedures.
There were also failures to consistently follow national clinical guidelines.
Impact on Patients
For affected patients, the consequences have been significant. Some women underwent life-changing surgery that may have been avoidable, excessive, or unnecessary, while others experienced delays in receiving appropriate treatment.
Women who have had biopsies may also have experienced substandard care, as it was found that samples may have been inadequate or may have missed the affected tissue.
Police Investigation
Durham Constabulary has now launched an investigation into the breast cancer service at the Trust. Police are reviewing information relating to care provided between 01/01/2023 and 21/02/2025 to determine whether any criminal offences may have occurred.
The investigation is ongoing, and officers have asked patients or staff with relevant information to come forward, including via a helpline from County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust.
Any patients with concerns regarding their clinical care are encouraged to contact the helpline on 0191 333 2126 or email cddft.breastservices@nhs.net.
Improvements Following the Report
The Trust has since issued an apology and is committed to implementing reforms to improve oversight, clinical standards, and communication with patients.
Some improvements already reported include:
- The number of women requiring a mastectomy has fallen to the national average
- Immediate breast reconstruction rates have tripled
- The need for second operations to fully remove cancer has halved
- More than 80% of patients now undergo day-case surgery
The Trust has confirmed that further improvements will continue to be implemented.
How We Can Help
If you or a loved one believe you may have suffered harm as a result of the failings at County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust, our specialist team can advise you on your options and whether you may be entitled to compensation.
Call us on 0151 306 3694 to discuss making a claim on a no win, no fee basis, or email ab@phoenixlegalsolicitors.co.uk.
0151 306 3694 ab@phoenixlegalsolicitors.co.uk Cancer Misdiagnosis Service
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