NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde wrongfully released a body from its mortuary, leading to the wrong person being cremated. The health board has launched an investigation into the serious error, which staff only discovered after the cremation had taken place, causing significant additional distress to two families.
The incident triggered sharp warnings in Scottish Parliament, where MSPs condemned what they called "shocking NHS blunders" and demanded accountability. Scottish Labour deputy leader Dame Jackie Baillie raised the matter during First Minister's Questions, describing the "devastation" the mistake caused to families and suggesting the matter could be reported to Police Scotland.
Pattern of incidents
Dame Jackie Baillie told Parliament this was not an isolated case. "But this is not the first incident at the hospital of this nature," she warned. "And it is unfortunately not the last, with the body of a 96-year-old grandmother sent to the wrong funeral directors."
Conservative health spokesman Dr Sandesh Gulhane cited multiple previous cases. "The body of 56-year-old William Paterson was released to the wrong funeral director," he told the First Minister. "A mum was left in a mortuary for six weeks with staff telling the family she had been forgotten." He added: "And 96-year-old Agnes Lane's remains were released to the wrong funeral firm."
Dr Gulhane questioned accountability: "At a time when families should be grieving, those mistakes are unacceptable, causing significant distress..." He asked: "What steps are taken to hold senior management to account? They always seem to escape scot-free."
NHS investigation launched
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde confirmed human error caused the wrongful release. A spokesperson said: "The serious issue, which was only identified after cremation had taken place, was the result of human error." The NHS informed family members and staff are providing full support.
Medical director Dr Scott Davidson apologized to both families. "We have very rigorous processes for the identification and labelling of bodies from arrival in our mortuaries until their release into the care of an undertaker," he explained. "It is of deep regret that these processes have not been adhered to on this occasion, and that as a result two families have been caused significant additional distress at an already very difficult time."
He confirmed: "We launched an immediate investigation into this incident and will ensure that learning is applied."
First Minister responds
The First Minister expressed deep concern during parliamentary questions. "I am deeply concerned about the situation and extend my sympathies to the families affected," he said. "The arrangements and requirements for caring for the deceased require that dignity and respect and the correct procedures are followed at all times."
He confirmed that both NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and the inspector of funeral directors are investigating the case. "I expect to see the outcome of this investigation shortly," Mr Swinney added, promising Parliament would receive information where possible.
The inspector of funeral directors is separately investigating the circumstances surrounding the wrongful release.
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
