Covering the period from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026, the report reflects a year in which the Health Services Safety Investigations Body (HSSIB) has continued to mature as an organisation. It demonstrates not only what we deliver, but the difference our work makes in practice. For example, improvements in diagnosing aortic dissection are helping more than 300 additional patients each year access life-saving treatment.
Over the past year, we published 16 investigation reports with 20 safety recommendations to national bodies and launched 16 new investigations. Our work continues to highlight that patient harm is rarely caused by one mistake – it happens when systems are under pressure. We have deepened our focus on impact, helping turn learning into real change across the healthcare system.
This has taken place against a backdrop of significant national change. The NHS 10 Year Health Plan and the Dash Review have set the direction for the future of patient safety. Subject to legislation, HSSIB is expected to transfer to the Care Quality Commission as a discrete unit. Throughout this transition, we remain committed to our core purpose: delivering independent investigations that support learning and improvement across the healthcare system.
Chair’s comment
Dr Ted Baker, Chair of HSSIB, said: “This annual report shows the progress we are making not only in delivering investigations, but in shaping safer systems. Our work continues to reinforce a fundamental truth: harm is rarely the result of individual failure, but of systems under pressure.
“Our independence and our statutory safe space allow us to uncover risks that might otherwise remain hidden. As the system continues to evolve, it will be critical to protect the conditions that allow openness, candour and learning. HSSIB will continue to provide a clear, independent voice to support that.”
Chief Executive’s comment
Dr Rosie Benneyworth, Interim Chief Executive, said: “I am incredibly proud of what HSSIB has achieved over the past year. Our work demonstrates that even in a highly pressured system, learning and improvement are possible when we understand how care is really delivered.
“What stands out most is the professionalism, compassion and commitment of our people. Whether supporting patients and families, undertaking complex investigations, or building capability across the system, colleagues have remained focused on what matters most – making healthcare safer.”
Thank you to the many people and organisations who have worked with us this year. And to our staff, for their professionalism and dedication to improving patient safety, now and into the future.
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