Overview
The complainants raised a number of concerns relating to the cremation of their baby (Baby C) and the subsequent handling and investigation of their complaint by Forth Valley NHS Board (the Board).
Specific complaints and conclusions
The complaints which have been investigated are that the Board:
- (a) denied the complainants the opportunity to attend Baby C's cremation (upheld);
- (b) failed to provide adequate evidence that Baby C was cremated entire (upheld);
- (c) failed to carry out a thorough investigation of the complaint (upheld); and
- (d) treated the complainants with disregard for their emotional state (partially upheld).
Redress and recommendations
The Ombudsman notes that the Board and Mr and Mrs C have entered into discussion regarding appropriate alternative redress and I am satisfied with this approach. Given the sensitivity and nature of this case, I have decided that the final redress arrangements should remain private to both parties.