Have you or a loved one suffered?
Speak to one of our expert solicitors today to find out if you could be owed compensation?
CALL 0800 083 5500
Posted on 22nd May 2025
The number of mixed-sex accommodation (MSA) breaches across NHS hospitals in England has seen a notable increase in the 2024/25 reporting year, with 50,637 breaches recorded, up from 44,287 in 2023/24. This marks a 14.3% year-on-year rise, raising further concerns about hospital capacity, patient privacy, and infrastructure pressures.
MSA breaches occur when patients are required to share sleeping areas or bathroom facilities with members of the opposite sex in non-emergency settings, in breach of NHS privacy standards. These situations are considered serious violations of patient dignity and are subject to strict guidelines by NHS England.
Monthly Trends and Escalation
The data reveals a consistent upward trend across several months:
- April 2024/25: 4,732 breaches (up from 3,072 in April 2023/24)
- January 2024/25: 5,155 breaches — the highest monthly figure over the two-year span
- February 2024/25: 4,371 breaches, slightly down from 4,811 in February 2023/24, but still significantly elevated
Overall, every month in 2024/25 saw higher MSA breaches than the same month in the previous year, except for February and August.
This continued rise suggests that hospitals are facing growing challenges in meeting NHS requirements for single-sex accommodation. High occupancy rates, staffing shortages, and pressures on hospital infrastructure are all likely contributing factors.
Expert Concern
Health experts and patient advocates have raised alarms over the impact on vulnerable patients. Sharing accommodation with the opposite sex, particularly in a medical setting, can lead to considerable psychological distress and feelings of exposure.
Jason Brady, Partner & Head of Blackwater Law said: “Mixed-sex accommodation breaches in NHS wards are a concern. These are breaches of NHS privacy standards based on their own policies. These breaches can cause a loss of privacy and dignity for patients and can also cause psychological distress, especially for those who are already vulnerable.
Patients may feel exposed and anxious in mixed environments in these circumstances, which can adversely affect their well-being and recovery. Maintaining single-sex wards isn’t just about meeting NHS policy, it is about maintaining standards of patient safety and avoiding the risk of patient harm.”
Helpful Articles
The latest provisional data from NHS England highlights the number and nature of Never Events reported by NHS trusts across England. Blackwater Law has examined the findings to assess their impact on patient care. More
If you have suffered an injury because of poor care, you may want to sue the NHS for negligence. This complete guide can help you make the best decision for you and your family. More
The Policy and Its Implications
NHS policy mandates that patients in elective and routine care settings should not have to share sleeping or bathroom facilities with the opposite sex. Exceptions may be made in urgent or critical care settings, but such cases should be limited and followed up with appropriate safeguards and communication.
Despite long-term efforts to reduce MSA breaches since data collection began in 2010, the current trend signals a reversal that may require renewed focus from NHS leadership and additional funding to address structural limitations.
Looking Ahead
With more than 50,000 breaches recorded over the past 12 months, healthcare leaders may be pressed to re-evaluate current strategies for ensuring compliance with privacy standards. Addressing root causes, such as bed shortages, outdated ward layouts, and capacity constraints will be critical to reversing this trajectory and restoring confidence in the dignity and safety of patient care environments.
