WEST Mercia Police has confirmed a police investigation will be conducted regarding maternity services and provision at Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust.

The force confirmed the investigation will be conducted in a statement released on Tuesday afternoon.

A meeting with representatives from West Mercia Police, NHS Improvement, The Department of Health and the independent reviewer took place to discuss complaints made against the trust.

Assistant Chief Constable Geoff Wessell from West Mercia Police said: “Today, June 30 2020, we have met with NHS Improvement, The Department of Health and the independent reviewer to discuss complaints made against Shrewsbury and Telford NHS Hospital Trust in relation to maternity services and provision. The independent review is ongoing.

“We can confirm that a police investigation will be conducted to explore whether there is evidence to support a criminal case either against the Trust or any individuals involved.

“The investigation is now live so we are unable to comment any further at this time.”

Louise Barnett, chief executive at SaTH, said: “We are aware that a police investigation will be conducted by West Mercia Police to explore whether there is evidence to support a criminal case either against the Trust or any individuals involved, following complaints made against the Trust in relation to maternity services and provision.

“We will fully cooperate with the investigation.

“I would like to reassure all families affected that we are listening and acting on feedback.

“We are not able to comment further to avoid prejudicing the investigation.”

Police are now appealing for any information in relation to the issue from people who have not previously been in touch with the review team.

Anyone with information is urged to contact either the police at MajorIncidentUnit@westmercia.pnn.police.uk or through the Major Incident Public Portal https://mipp.police.uk/operation/22HQ19D84-PO1 or by calling 101.