Working conditions affecting care standards in Wales

The University Hospital of Wales (UHW) in Cardiff is currently under investigation following serious allegations that raise significant clinical concerns. Sara Haf Uren, a Partner in the Clinical Negligence and Serious Injury Team considers further.

We have previously written about the consequences of a stretched NHS and how an underfunded NHS can have serious implications on a patient’s health. Long waiting times, overworked practitioners, and deteriorating facilities all lead to people not receiving the right treatment in time. The most recent report shows a culture within the NHS that is not just failing its patients, but its staff as well. 

“The University Hospital of Wales (UHW) in Cardiff is currently under investigation following serious allegations that raise significant clinical concerns. These include breaches of patient safety protocols, discriminatory behaviour, and systemic management failures within its operating theatres.

Key allegations include:

1. Unauthorised Individuals in Operating Theatres
   In 2021, it was alleged that friends and family members were allowed to observe surgeries without undergoing background checks or using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). This occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, posing significant infection risks to patients and staff. Patients were reportedly unaware of these unauthorised observers, violating their rights to informed consent and confidentiality.
2. Substance Misuse Among Staff
   A staff member was allegedly found with amphetamines in their locker. Despite this, they were suspended and later reinstated. Such incidents raise concerns about the hospital’s commitment to maintaining a safe environment, potentially endangering patient care.
3. Racism and Bullying
   Reports indicate a toxic workplace culture, including racist remarks and allegations of bullying.
4. Increase in “Never Events”
   Whistleblowers have reported a rise in “never events”—serious, preventable incidents that should not occur if proper safety procedures are followed. This trend is attributed to the departure of experienced staff and inadequate training for junior personnel, highlighting potential lapses in patient safety protocols.

As a result of the report, the Cardiff and Vale University Health Board has initiated a comprehensive 12–16 week review focusing on leadership, staff behaviour, communication, and equity within the hospital’s operating theatres. The review aims to address the raised concerns and implement necessary changes. 

These issues at the University Hospital of Wales reflect wider challenges within NHS Wales, which if substantiated, could have significant implications, including potential clinical negligence claims. They highlight the necessity for rigorous adherence to patient safety standards, staff accountability, and a commitment to fostering a psychologically safe, inclusive and respectful workplace culture.”

We are seeing a rise in clinical negligence cases that are coming to us where people have been let down by the NHS at a time when they are needed the most. Mistakes are inevitable given the strains on the services, but that doesn’t make it right and the service has a dedicated fund to compensate patients who have suffered, unnecessarily.

How can we help?

If you have suffered as a result of poor care, you may be entitled to make a claim. Our specialist clinical negligence solicitors can help and advise you on the best course of action. Click here to email us, or call us on 01633 244233.