Enable Law, a leading medical negligence law firm, is urging the Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust (RCHT) to launch a rigorous, independent public investigation into the work of former vascular surgeon Neil Hopper.
The call comes after several of Mr Hopper’s former patients approached Enable Law with concerns about their treatment, following shocking criminal charges brought against him.
Serious charges raise questions
As reported by the BBC, Mr Hopper, who performed hundreds of amputations before undergoing surgery to remove his own legs, has appeared in court accused of fraud and encouraging someone else to remove body parts of others.
He was employed by RCHT from 2013 until his arrest in March 2023 and has been suspended from the medical register since December of that year. He is scheduled to appear before Truro Crown Court on Thursday, September 4.
Patients seek answers
Enable Law partner Mike Bird, based in Truro, is leading a team of specialist solicitors to support Mr Hopper’s former patients.
“The fact Neil Hopper faces very serious criminal charges relating to fraud and GBH has caused shock and grave concern among his former patients. Some have had life-changing surgery and are now worried it was not really needed.”
Although RCHT has said that the charges do not relate to Mr Hopper’s professional conduct, Mike stressed that the seriousness of the case demands transparency and scrutiny.
Experience in similar cases
Enable Law has previously represented patients in high-profile cases involving RCHT staff, including claims against disgraced gynaecologist Rob Jones and former Dr Stan.
Mike Bird explained:
“In situations of this nature, there has to be a proper independent investigation, conducted openly and transparently. For patients, the key is strength in numbers, and it’s better to get in touch now – there is nothing to pay, and no obligation – so that we can quickly identify common themes and get answers to all their questions.”
We are also recommending that RCHT immediately provide psychological and medical support to affected patients, working with expert organisations such as the Limbless Association.
Support for amputees
The Limbless Association, which has long supported amputees in Cornwall, is also stepping in. CEO Deborah Bent said the charity is ready to help those who may be affected by the ongoing case:
“We would welcome the opportunity to support any patients that might be affected by current events, whether this means being part of the coproduction of a dedicated patient support pathway or via signposting to the charity.”
How we can help
At Enable Law we have decades of experience representing families who have been let down by negligent care. Our experts often subspecialise in a particular medical area meaning they have very niche expertise acquired by having supported multiple clients who have been failed in similar ways. This knowledge means we are best placed to help getting answers about what may have happened and help them seek justice. If you have been impacted by substandard medical care don’t suffer in silence. Give us a call on 0800 044 8488 or fill in our contact form here so we can call you back at a time convenient for you and explore ways we may be able to help. All initial discussions are free of charge and strictly confidential. We will always treat you with respect in the most empathetic way possible and do our best to help you.
