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NHS trust apologises to Noah Woods' family over data breach

NHS trust apologises to Noah Woods' family over data breach

Eadt • September 27, 2026

An NHS trust has apologised for causing "extra anguish" to the family of Noah Woods following a data breach.

The three-year-old was found dead in Decoy Pond in Brantham after he left a play area in Marriam Close.

An inquest into his death opened on Friday and was told he had left the play area through a gap in the fence and became separated from the relative who was with him.

Around 1,300 volunteers joined the to find Noah.

Changes made to playground area after death of three-year-old Noah Woods

Changes made to playground area after death of three-year-old Noah Woods

Family pay tribute to 'most affectionate little boy' who was 'centre of their world'

Family pay tribute to 'most affectionate little boy' who was 'centre of their world'

Three-year-old Noah left through 'gap in the fence' in play area as inquest opens

Three-year-old Noah left through 'gap in the fence' in play area as inquest opens

Fundraiser for Noah Woods reaches more than £100k in three days

Fundraiser for Noah Woods reaches more than £100k in three days

The changes village wants to make to be 'better prepared' after death of toddler

The changes village wants to make to be 'better prepared' after death of toddler

Tributes were left at the playground (Image: Newsquest)

On Sunday, East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust announced it has launched an urgent investigation into the unauthorised access of patient data.

It is understood 10 employees have been removed from active duty while investigations are carried out.

Dr Marin Mansfield, deputy chief medical officer, said: "Any unauthorised access of patient data is completely unacceptable.

"We understand the significant distress it can cause patients and their families.

"It also undermines trust in our services. Safeguarding that trust is central to the care we provide.

"We have apologised unreservedly to Noah Woods' family for the extra anguish this breach of trust has caused them at an already devastating time."

Family asks to preserve tributes left for three-year-old Noah Woods

Family asks to preserve tributes left for three-year-old Noah Woods

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'Disgusting' post Noah Woods on sparks police probe

Footballer donates to fundraiser for Noah Woods' family as £88k raised

Footballer donates to fundraiser for Noah Woods' family as £88k raised

Noah's death prompts thousands to back tougher water safety measures

Noah's death prompts thousands to back tougher water safety measures

'Sleep tight angel boy' - Village grieves loss of three-year-old Noah

'Sleep tight angel boy' - Village grieves loss of three-year-old Noah

The investigation was launched after the trust became aware that Noah Woods' medical records may have been viewed "inappropriately."

Immediate steps were taken to secure the records and prevent further illegitimate access.

The incident has also been reported to the Information Commissioners Office.

Dr Mansfield added: "We take any patient data breach seriously.

"We investigate thoroughly, and we will take disciplinary action where needed in response to our findings, in line with the Trust's policies and procedures."

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