The UK government is facing renewed calls to strengthen oversight of mortuary security in NHS hospitals following the horrific crimes of David Fuller. Fuller, who sexually abused corpses in hospital mortuaries, has prompted a nationwide review of procedures to prevent such atrocities from happening again.
Government Response to Fuller's Crimes
Ministers have announced plans to introduce stricter regulations, including mandatory CCTV in mortuaries and enhanced background checks for staff. The measures aim to restore public trust in the NHS after the scandal exposed glaring vulnerabilities in mortuary security.
Proposed Reforms
Key proposals include:
- Compulsory CCTV coverage in all hospital mortuaries
- Regular independent inspections of mortuary facilities
- Tougher vetting procedures for mortuary staff
- Clearer national standards for mortuary management
The government has acknowledged that current systems failed to prevent Fuller's crimes, which occurred over a 12-year period at hospitals in Kent.
Victims' Families Demand Action
Relatives of those affected have welcomed the proposed changes but argue they should have been implemented sooner. Campaigners are pushing for these measures to be enshrined in law rather than left as guidelines.
Health Secretary Victoria Atkins stated: "The abhorrent acts committed by David Fuller must never be allowed to happen again. We owe it to the victims and their families to ensure mortuaries are places of dignity and respect."
The new regulations are expected to be rolled out across England by the end of 2024, with NHS Trusts required to demonstrate compliance with the updated standards.
