Full Breakdown
County Durham and Darlington NHS Trust Expands Review of Breast-Cancer Care
By Drooid · · How we work
Background to the Trust’s Breast Service Failings
The County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust’s breast unit has been under scrutiny after a review of cases from January 2023 to February 2025 identified 538 cases, of which 321 patients experienced some form of harm, including one death. Earlier concerns were first raised in 2015 following a service reconfiguration that eliminated breast-surgical trainee posts. Subsequent complaints from patients, the Northern Cancer Alliance, the Care Quality Commission and NHS England highlighted treatment that was “not aligned to best practice,” excessive surgery and delayed diagnosis.
Scope, Findings and Statistics
Board papers propose extending the “Look Back Exercise” to cover up to 4,500 patients by reviewing records year-by-year back to 2015, a process estimated to take five years. The review has already uncovered more than 300 harmed patients, with 77 suffering significant harm, and 20 women who underwent mastectomies later deemed unnecessary. Specialists from other hospitals have been engaged to assist with the expanded review.
Official Responses and Criticism
Board chair Alison Marshall offered a formal apology to affected women and families, acknowledging that the trust cannot reverse past harms but pledges openness and transparency. Chief nurse Gill Hunt noted that the trust has already implemented “significant changes” to the breast service and will continue to provide clear information and support to patients. Legal counsel Hayley Collinson, representing many of the affected women, argued that the scale of identified harm makes it difficult to justify any decision other than a full extension of the review. Representatives of the Pink Justice Network, an online support group of roughly 150 women, have called for a public inquiry, saying that many patients will continue to question the appropriateness of their treatment.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I would like to offer a sincere apology to all the women and their families who have been affected by the failings in our breast services.” — Alison Marshall, board chair
- “The Look Back Exercise has cost the trust more than £500,000 this year, with staff checking back over records, medical experts reviewing cases and psychological help offered to patients affected.” — Amelia Green
These statements underscore the trust’s acknowledgment of systemic shortcomings and the financial burden of the ongoing investigation.