Suspect further arrested on two counts of wilful neglect as part of major investigation

A 35-year-old man from West Wiltshire has been further arrested yesterday in connection with Operation Willow, a major investigation into the death of several adults within a healthcare setting in the Wiltshire area.

He was arrested on suspicion of two further counts of wilful neglect by a care worker.

The suspect has remained on conditional bail since September last year, having previously been arrested on suspicion of six counts of gross negligence manslaughter and four counts of ill-treatment or wilful neglect by a care worker

A 60-year-old woman previously arrested on suspicion of one count of gross negligence manslaughter and one count of ill-treatment or wilful neglect by a care worker in connection with the same investigation, remains on conditional bail.

The male arrested yesterday has been bailed with conditions pending further investigation.

Both individuals were employed by the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT)  and were immediately suspended from duty pending the outcome of the investigation and are no longer employed by the trust.

The complex investigation, known as Operation Willow, has been ongoing following concerns raised to Wiltshire Police in 2023.

Anyone with further information is asked to contact Wiltshire Police via the dedicated major incident portal - by following this link.

A spokesperson for the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, said: “As soon as the Trust became aware of any concerns, we immediately launched an internal investigation which resulted in a prompt police referral, and we continue to work closely with Wiltshire Police as part of their ongoing investigation.

“Two members of staff have been dismissed from the Trust, following an initial suspension. This meant that they were immediately relieved of all duties, including the treatment of patients.

“We would like to reassure communities that there is no on-going risk to patients. Please continue to call 999 in a life-threatening emergency.

“Due to the ongoing investigation, there will be no further comment at this stage.”