Dylan Hill
PFD Report
All Responded
Ref: 2018-0004
All 3 responses received
· Deadline: 1 Mar 2018
Coroner's Concerns (AI summary)
A critical lack of communication procedures meant a previous non-fatal anaphylactic reaction at a food business was not reported to Trading Standards, preventing timely regulatory action and risking future deaths.
View full coroner's concerns
The MATTER OF CONCERN is as follows. –
Evidence was given before the Court of an incident within the same premises in September 2014 where a curry containing nuts was given to a customer who had requested a nut free curry. That customer had an anaphylactic reaction and was taken to hospital where he made a full recovery.
Evidence was also given that the Trading Standards department of the local council had not been told of this incident prior to the death of Mr Hill. Had they known, they would have arranged a priority visit.
After Mr Hill's death the restaurant were issued a prohibition notice that they were not permitted to offer allergen free meals.
Evidence was given that there are no procedures in place for such communications between the health services and Trading Standards in cases of non fatal anaphylactic reactions.
In my opinion there is a risk that future deaths may occur unless cases of non fatal anaphylactic reactions caused by the ingestion of purchases from food business operatives are reported to those regulatory authorities responsible for the supervision and monitoring of food safety and hygiene.
The question therefore arises as to whether the emergency services and health services within the area can work together to ensure that Trading Standards Departments are made aware of all anaphylaxis incidents relating to commercial premises so that the appropriate action can be taken as regards those premises.
Evidence was given before the Court of an incident within the same premises in September 2014 where a curry containing nuts was given to a customer who had requested a nut free curry. That customer had an anaphylactic reaction and was taken to hospital where he made a full recovery.
Evidence was also given that the Trading Standards department of the local council had not been told of this incident prior to the death of Mr Hill. Had they known, they would have arranged a priority visit.
After Mr Hill's death the restaurant were issued a prohibition notice that they were not permitted to offer allergen free meals.
Evidence was given that there are no procedures in place for such communications between the health services and Trading Standards in cases of non fatal anaphylactic reactions.
In my opinion there is a risk that future deaths may occur unless cases of non fatal anaphylactic reactions caused by the ingestion of purchases from food business operatives are reported to those regulatory authorities responsible for the supervision and monitoring of food safety and hygiene.
The question therefore arises as to whether the emergency services and health services within the area can work together to ensure that Trading Standards Departments are made aware of all anaphylaxis incidents relating to commercial premises so that the appropriate action can be taken as regards those premises.
Responses
Action Planned
The FSA will be meeting with other government departments and organisations to discuss tackling food allergy issues, and welcomes the Coroner's contribution to these discussions; will also be placing more emphasis on reporting near misses and deaths from food allergy in the Practice Guidance and writing to local authorities to highlight lessons learned and reinforce expectations on good allergen management practices. (AI summary)
The FSA will be meeting with other government departments and organisations to discuss tackling food allergy issues, and welcomes the Coroner's contribution to these discussions; will also be placing more emphasis on reporting near misses and deaths from food allergy in the Practice Guidance and writing to local authorities to highlight lessons learned and reinforce expectations on good allergen management practices. (AI summary)
View full response
Dear Mrs Rawden, Thank you for sending the Regulation 28: Report to Prevent Future Deaths to the Food Standards Agency; following an investigation into the death of Mr Dylan Paul Hill, which concluded with an inquest on 19 and 20 December 2017 . am saddened to hear about the death of Mr Hill, and my thoughts are with his friends and family. We are aware that the Department of Health and Social Care will be responding to you regarding measures to be put in place at a local level. In March , we will be meeting with representatives from other government departments (including the Department of Health and Social Care and Public Health England) and organisations involved in food allergy to discuss how we can better tackle the issue. We would, of course, welcome your contribution if you would like to take part in such discussions. Alternatively, we will keep you in touch with developments on this issue On raising awareness about food allergy, we provided stakeholders with messaging before and after the allergen information and labelling rules became enforceable in December 2014. These have been particularly around the changes in legislation, detailing the obligations and responsibilities of the business, but also to let consumers know how to look for allergen information. In relation to enforcement of allergens information and labelling rules, we have provided clarification in the Food Law Code of Practice and associated Practice Guidance, implemented in 2017, and are looking to further strengthen these documents to address allergen management and cross contamination issues. Later this year, we will be placing Floors 6 & 7 , Clive House 70 Petty France, London SWIH 9EX
020.7276 8627 FOOD HYGIENE RATING food gov uklratings Watery key
more emphasis on reporting of near misses and deaths from food allergy in the Practice Guidance_ We will also be to local authorities to highlight lessons learnt;, and reinforce our expectations on good allergen management practices: Food allergy remains one of the FSA's priority areas and we will continue to focus our efforts to help consumers make informed food choices, to help businesses to understand and comply with legislation relating to allergen information and labelling: Chun-Han Chan, who leads in the Food Allergy & Intolerance Branch on Allergen Legislation and Risk Assessment; will be organising the cross-Government discussions. would be grateful if you could contact her chun-han chan@foodgoV uk) if you wish to be involved in the discussions
020.7276 8627 FOOD HYGIENE RATING food gov uklratings Watery key
more emphasis on reporting of near misses and deaths from food allergy in the Practice Guidance_ We will also be to local authorities to highlight lessons learnt;, and reinforce our expectations on good allergen management practices: Food allergy remains one of the FSA's priority areas and we will continue to focus our efforts to help consumers make informed food choices, to help businesses to understand and comply with legislation relating to allergen information and labelling: Chun-Han Chan, who leads in the Food Allergy & Intolerance Branch on Allergen Legislation and Risk Assessment; will be organising the cross-Government discussions. would be grateful if you could contact her chun-han chan@foodgoV uk) if you wish to be involved in the discussions
Action Planned
The Trust has reviewed and updated its anaphylaxis draft protocol and included a referral form to inform Trading Standards of cases of anaphylactic reaction from commercial premises. The draft protocol will be reviewed and ratified at a meeting in March 2018. (AI summary)
The Trust has reviewed and updated its anaphylaxis draft protocol and included a referral form to inform Trading Standards of cases of anaphylactic reaction from commercial premises. The draft protocol will be reviewed and ratified at a meeting in March 2018. (AI summary)
View full response
Dear Mrs Rawden Re: Dylan Paul Hill (Deceased) May thank you for including our Trust in the circulation list for the Regulation 28 that you issued on 5 January 2018, and forwarded to Secretary of State for Health and Food Standards Agency: Whilst the Regulation 28 does not require a formal response from our Trust we have taken a decision to respond to the points that ycu have raised t0 improve working relationships between the Trust Trading Standards at Barnsley Metropolitan Council to improve the safety and care of people in the Barnsley locality: The purpose of my letter is to inform you that Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has taken the following action to address the Coroner's concerns that were provided in your letter (dated 5 January
2018) and can be responded to as follows: Evidence was also given that the Trading Standards department if the local council had not been told of this incident to the death of Mr Hill; Had they known; would have arranged a priority visit: Our anaphylaxis draft protocol has been reviewed and updated in accordance with our internal governance processes (see enclosure 1). Evidence was given that there are no procedures in place for such communications between the health services and Trading Standards in cases of non fatal anaphylactic reactions. Our revised anaphylaxis draft protocol includes a referral form to inform Trading Standards of cases of anaphylactic reaction as a result of consuming food from commercial premises. In my opinion there is risk that future deaths may occur unless cases of non fatal anaphylactic reactions caused by the ingestion of purchases from food business operatives are reported to those regulatory authorities responsible for the supervision and monitoring of food safety and hygiene: The enclosed protocol has a clear algorithm on medicine management and how the detail of the consumption at the commercial premises is communicated to the Iocal authority to ensure the timely communication of potential risks WWWA barnsleyhospitalnhsuk @barnshospital www facebook com/barnsleyhospital prior they
The question therefore arises as to whether the emergency services and the health services within the area can work together to ensure that Trading Standards Departments are made aware of all anaphylaxis incidents relating to commercial premises so that the appropriate action can be taken as regards these premises: Our enclosed draft protocol has been circulated with the listed interested parties named in this Regulation 28 letter. The draft protocol will be taken to the Trust's Clinical Business Unit Governance Meeting on 23 March 2018 for it to be reviewed and ratified we will forward you the final protocol when this has been agreed.
2018) and can be responded to as follows: Evidence was also given that the Trading Standards department if the local council had not been told of this incident to the death of Mr Hill; Had they known; would have arranged a priority visit: Our anaphylaxis draft protocol has been reviewed and updated in accordance with our internal governance processes (see enclosure 1). Evidence was given that there are no procedures in place for such communications between the health services and Trading Standards in cases of non fatal anaphylactic reactions. Our revised anaphylaxis draft protocol includes a referral form to inform Trading Standards of cases of anaphylactic reaction as a result of consuming food from commercial premises. In my opinion there is risk that future deaths may occur unless cases of non fatal anaphylactic reactions caused by the ingestion of purchases from food business operatives are reported to those regulatory authorities responsible for the supervision and monitoring of food safety and hygiene: The enclosed protocol has a clear algorithm on medicine management and how the detail of the consumption at the commercial premises is communicated to the Iocal authority to ensure the timely communication of potential risks WWWA barnsleyhospitalnhsuk @barnshospital www facebook com/barnsleyhospital prior they
The question therefore arises as to whether the emergency services and the health services within the area can work together to ensure that Trading Standards Departments are made aware of all anaphylaxis incidents relating to commercial premises so that the appropriate action can be taken as regards these premises: Our enclosed draft protocol has been circulated with the listed interested parties named in this Regulation 28 letter. The draft protocol will be taken to the Trust's Clinical Business Unit Governance Meeting on 23 March 2018 for it to be reviewed and ratified we will forward you the final protocol when this has been agreed.
Action Planned
The FSA will set up a cross-government discussion to consider the reporting of non-fatal anaphylaxis, while Barnsley and Sheffield are exploring the development of local notification systems and considering ways to raise awareness among GPs. (AI summary)
The FSA will set up a cross-government discussion to consider the reporting of non-fatal anaphylaxis, while Barnsley and Sheffield are exploring the development of local notification systems and considering ways to raise awareness among GPs. (AI summary)
View full response
From Steve Brine MP Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Public Health and Care Department of Health 39 Victoria Street London SW1H OEU 020 7210 4850 1 2 MAR 'Zun8 PFD-1113293 FV_ Mrs Tanyka Rawden MAR 2019 HM Assistant Coroner; South Yorkshire (West) Office of HM Coroner The Medico-Legal Centre Watery Street Sheffield S3 7ET Dvrc Ms {Gwt, Thank you for your letter of 5 January to the Secretary of State about the death of Mr Dylan Paul Hill: Iam responding as Minister with responsibility for public health: I was extremely saddened to read of the circumstances surrounding Mr Hill's death. Please pass my condolences to his family and loved ones_ Ican only imagine how difficult a time this must be for them: Your Report raises the concern that future deaths might occur unless cases of non-fatal anaphylaxis brought on by the ingestion of food consumed commercial premises are reported to the relevant regulatory authorities overseeing food safety and hygiene. My officials have made enquiries with the Food Standards Agency (FSA); to which You also issued your Report, and I understand the Agency shares your concerns The FSA wishes to set up cross-government discussion to consider this matter further 1 this will be a welcome development and will provide assurance that the matter will be considered carefully: Iam advised that the FSA will update you on the outcome of discussions in due course_ At a local level, I am advised that Barnsley and Sheffield are working to explore the development of local notification systems in both primary and secondary care settings This includes collaborative working between Barnsley and Sheffield acute trusts to ensure there is consistency in the mechanisms in place, as well as consideration of the best way to raise awareness among GPs. This issue and the Primary from hope being - put
progress made on measures to address it will be monitored by the Sheffield and the Barnsley Health Protection Boards. The local NHS is mindful of any action that might be taken at a national level and clearly any developments will inform future local action. However, I hope are assured the local NHS is working to explore what measures can be put in place at a local level I hope this response is helpful. Thank you for bringing the circumstances of Mr Hill's death to our attention: Yiv (STEVE BRINE MP you
progress made on measures to address it will be monitored by the Sheffield and the Barnsley Health Protection Boards. The local NHS is mindful of any action that might be taken at a national level and clearly any developments will inform future local action. However, I hope are assured the local NHS is working to explore what measures can be put in place at a local level I hope this response is helpful. Thank you for bringing the circumstances of Mr Hill's death to our attention: Yiv (STEVE BRINE MP you
Sent To
- Department for Health
- Food Standards Agency
Response Status
Linked responses
3 of 2
56-Day Deadline
1 Mar 2018
All responses received
About PFD responses
Organisations named in PFD reports must respond within 56 days explaining what actions they are taking.
Source: Courts and Tribunals Judiciary
Report Sections
Investigation and Inquest
On 28 July 2015 an investigation was commenced into the death of Dylan Paul Hill aged 18 years. Following a post-mortem examination, the investigation concluded with an inquest on 19 and 20 December 2017.
The inquest was assisted with evidence from the partner of Dylan Hill who was at the restaurant with him, representatives from Trading Standards and Environmental Heath, the owner of the restaurant and an expert, .
The conclusion of the inquest was that Dylan Paul Hill died at Barnsley General Hospital of an anaphylactic reaction after eating a korma meal at a restaurant in Barnsley on 17.05.15. Dylan was served a korma containing almond powder. That powder contained almonds and peanuts. The restaurant was not aware the almond powder contained peanuts as it was not labelled and had been decanted into another container. Importantly, no steps had been taken by the restaurant to ascertain the ingredients of the almond powder.
There was no allergen information on the menus or displayed in the restaurant
Dylan didn’t have his EpiPen with him but it cannot be said this would have brought about a different outcome.
The inquest was assisted with evidence from the partner of Dylan Hill who was at the restaurant with him, representatives from Trading Standards and Environmental Heath, the owner of the restaurant and an expert, .
The conclusion of the inquest was that Dylan Paul Hill died at Barnsley General Hospital of an anaphylactic reaction after eating a korma meal at a restaurant in Barnsley on 17.05.15. Dylan was served a korma containing almond powder. That powder contained almonds and peanuts. The restaurant was not aware the almond powder contained peanuts as it was not labelled and had been decanted into another container. Importantly, no steps had been taken by the restaurant to ascertain the ingredients of the almond powder.
There was no allergen information on the menus or displayed in the restaurant
Dylan didn’t have his EpiPen with him but it cannot be said this would have brought about a different outcome.
Circumstances of the Death
Dylan Paul Hill was diagnosed with a peanut allergy at the age of ten. In consequence he had been issued with an adrenaline auto-injector (in this case an EpiPen). Mr Hill also suffered from asthma.
On 17.05.17 Mr Hill and his partner went to a restaurant in Barnsley. Mr Hill ordered a Korma meal and became unwell after eating one or two mouthfuls.
He asked the waiter whether the meal contained nuts and was told it did.
After returning home a short time later Mr Hill collapsed and was confirmed dead on arrival at the local A&E Department.
Pathology examination showed that Mr Hill had died of an anaphylactic reaction.
Examination of the contents of the ingredients of the korma showed that the ‘almond powder’ contained 94% almonds and 6% peanuts. In evidence it was clear the restaurant did not know the ‘almond powder’ contained peanuts as the ingredients had not been checked on purchase, the powder had been decanted into an unlabeled container, and the packaging disposed of.
On 17.05.17 Mr Hill and his partner went to a restaurant in Barnsley. Mr Hill ordered a Korma meal and became unwell after eating one or two mouthfuls.
He asked the waiter whether the meal contained nuts and was told it did.
After returning home a short time later Mr Hill collapsed and was confirmed dead on arrival at the local A&E Department.
Pathology examination showed that Mr Hill had died of an anaphylactic reaction.
Examination of the contents of the ingredients of the korma showed that the ‘almond powder’ contained 94% almonds and 6% peanuts. In evidence it was clear the restaurant did not know the ‘almond powder’ contained peanuts as the ingredients had not been checked on purchase, the powder had been decanted into an unlabeled container, and the packaging disposed of.
Copies Sent To
Others sent copies for information
1. Chief Executive, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
2. Chief Executive, Sheffield Children’s hospital, Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TH
3. Chief Executive, Barnsley District Hospital, Gawber Road, Barnsley, S75 2EP
4. Chief Executive, Clinical Commissioning Group, Sheffield, 722 Prince of Wales Road, Sheffield, S9 4EU
5. Chief Executive, Clinical Commissioning Group, Barnsley, 49/51 Gawber Road, Barnsley S75 2PY
6. Chief Executive, Yorkshire Ambulance Service, Springhill 2, Wakefield 41 Business Park, Brindley Way, Wakefield, WF2 0XQ
7. Chief Executive, Trading Standards, Sheffield City Council, 5th Floor, Howden House, Sheffield, S1 2SH
8. Chief Executive, Trading Standards, PO Box 602, Barnsley, S70 9FB
9. Environmental Health, Sheffield City Council, Staniforth Road, Sheffield, S9 3HD
10. Environmental Health, Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, Common Road, Brierley, Barnsley, S72 9EP
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Data sourced from Courts and Tribunals Judiciary under the Open Government Licence.