Inspectors from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) have found bodies in a state of advanced deterioration at the mortuary of Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, prompting immediate concerns over the facility's storage practices and oversight.
Inspection Findings
The unannounced inspection, conducted in May 2026, revealed that several deceased individuals had been stored in conditions that led to significant decomposition. According to the CQC report, the mortuary's refrigeration units were not maintained at the required temperature, and there were delays in transferring bodies to the funeral directors.
The trust, which manages Queen's Medical Centre and Nottingham City Hospital, has been issued with a warning notice and must implement improvements within a specified timeframe. The CQC found that the mortuary was understaffed and that staff lacked adequate training in the care of the deceased.
Impact on Families
Families of the deceased have been informed of the failings, with some expressing distress and anger over the handling of their loved ones. One relative, speaking on condition of anonymity, said: "We trusted the NHS to treat our father with dignity, and instead he was left to rot. It's heartbreaking."
The trust has apologised and set up a helpline for affected families. It has also launched an internal investigation to determine how the situation was allowed to occur and to prevent recurrence.
Trust Response
Dr. John Walsh, medical director at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, said: "We are deeply sorry for the distress caused to families. We have taken immediate steps to address the issues raised by the CQC, including additional training for mortuary staff and a review of our temperature monitoring systems."
The trust has also commissioned an independent review of its mortuary services and is working with local funeral directors to ensure timely transfers. The CQC will conduct a follow-up inspection within three months to assess progress.
Broader Concerns
The incident has raised wider questions about the state of NHS mortuary facilities across the country. The CQC has indicated it will be carrying out similar inspections at other trusts to ensure compliance with standards. According to data from the National Audit Office, at least 10% of NHS trusts have reported issues with mortuary capacity or storage conditions in the past year.
Health Secretary Sarah Johnson said the government would provide additional funding to improve mortuary facilities and training. "This is completely unacceptable. We will ensure that every NHS trust has the resources and protocols in place to treat the deceased with the respect they deserve," she said.
