The specialist knowledge required for each of our investigations varies. We may draw on specialist knowledge from independent advisors and from investigation teams at NHS trusts during the course of our investigations.

Independent advisors

Our advisors come from across the healthcare system and can be anyone that has relevant expertise in the area we're investigating. It's important for us to engage with advisors because they help us to build a factual and accurate record of events, as well as reflecting on the degree to which standard practice was deviated from. They are completely independent and not employed by HSIB.

The specialist knowledge needed for each investigation differs, but advisors can be:

  • Patients
  • Clinicians
  • Representatives from pharmaceutical companies
  • Manufacturers
  • Regulators.

NHS investigation teams

Investigation teams within local NHS trusts are crucial to our process. They are the first people to determine what happened and why through early internal investigations.

We'll often work with a local liaison officer. They can provide updates on the status of their investigation, what they have found so far and provide access to key evidence.