Investigation launched as NHS trust apologises for Noah Woods data breach

An NHS trust has apologised for the distress caused by a data breach of medical records belonging to three-year-old Noah Woods. The East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust has launched an urgent investigation into the incident. Dr Martin Mansfield, deputy chief medical officer of the trust, stated that any unauthorized access to patient data is completely unacceptable.

Disciplinary action may be taken if necessary. The search for Noah, who went missing on September 15 in Brantham, Suffolk, led to the discovery of his body the following day in local water. The trust has reported the matter to the Information Commissioner's Office and will keep Noah's family updated throughout the investigation.

At least 1,300 individuals assisted in the search effort, which lasted 24 hours before Noah's safe return. Noah's family described him as a happy, playful boy who cherished laughter. His mother urged parents to hold their children tightly and appreciate every moment. An inquest revealed that Noah had slipped through a fence gap in a play area. Assistant coroner Jyoti Gill described the death as tragic and adjourned the inquest in Ipswich.