NHS Tayside has launched an investigation into allegations that staff accessed the medical records of nine-year-old Minnie Merriman without authorisation following her death in Dundee. The health board is examining claims that employees viewed the schoolgirl’s confidential hospital records despite having no clinical reason to do so. Minnie died at Ninewells Hospital after being found fatally injured at Elliot Industrial Estate in Dundee, where she had been camping with her family. Her father, Christopher Rice, 35, appeared at Forfar Sheriff Court on Wednesday charged with her murder. He made no plea and was remanded in custody ahead of a further court appearance next week.
NHS Tayside launches data breach investigation
It has now emerged that NHS Tayside is investigating an alleged data breach involving access to Minnie’s confidential patient information. If the investigation establishes that a data protection breach occurred, the matter could be reported to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). An NHS Tayside spokesperson said: “NHS Tayside is currently investigating the circumstances of an alleged data breach which happened in a working clinical area where staff access patient information. “As a matter of governance, any data protection breach would be recorded and investigated by NHS Tayside and, where appropriate, reported to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). “It would not be appropriate for us to comment further on individual staffing matters.”
Father charged with Minnie’s murder
Three other people were also taken to hospital following the incident on Monday. Rice was transported separately before later being taken into custody and charged. The 35-year-old subsequently appeared at Forfar Sheriff Court, where he made no plea and was remanded in custody. The criminal proceedings remain ongoing.
Family pay heartbreaking tribute to Minnie
Minnie’s devastated family have paid tribute to the nine-year-old, describing her as an “incredible, beautiful and brave” girl. Her mother, Laurie Eve Merriman, said: “You have always and will continue being my strength… I will see you again, that I know for sure. I love you eternally.” Tributes have continued to be left near the industrial estate as the Dundee community struggles to come to terms with Minnie’s death. Flowers, toys and handwritten messages have been placed at the scene. Among the tributes are a plush strawberry, a Hello Kitty figure and a sketchbook. The investigation into Minnie’s death remains ongoing. NHS Tayside’s separate investigation will seek to establish whether her confidential medical information was accessed inappropriately and whether any further action, including referral to the ICO, is required.
