Overview

• William Hewes, 22, died of meningococcal sepsis within 24 hours of being admitted to Homerton University Hospital in January 2023, with delays in antibiotic treatment identified as a critical failure.
• The coroner’s narrative conclusion stated that while systemic errors in his care were evident, it remains unclear whether earlier treatment would have changed the outcome.
• Dr. Deborah Burns, William’s mother and a consultant paediatrician at the hospital, raised concerns eight times about the need for antibiotics, which were ultimately administered too late.
• Homerton University Hospital has since implemented reforms to improve sepsis management and committed to sharing these changes nationally through a prevention of future deaths report.
• The case draws parallels to the death of Martha Mills, which led to 'Martha’s Rule,' emphasizing the need for family empowerment in medical decision-making to prevent further tragedies.