Investigation finds widespread maternity care failings

A recent investigation by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) has uncovered significant failings in maternity care across multiple NHS hospitals.

These issues, which have been linked to birth injuries, stillbirths, and life-altering harm to both mothers and babies, are becoming more widespread. Earlier scandals at hospitals in Shrewsbury, Telford, and East Kent revealed poor care contributing to the deaths of babies, and now it appears these problems are present in many other NHS trusts.

The CQC’s review of 131 maternity units found serious concerns about inadequate staffing, unsafe equipment, delays in emergency caesareans, and poor management of safety incidents. In some cases, preventable harm, including stillbirths and neonatal deaths, is becoming “normalised.” Of all of the units investigated, a staggering 65% of them were deemed to be failing on the single issue of safety.

Such negligence has led to a significant rise in claims against the NHS for birth injuries, including brain injuries and trauma resulting from delayed emergency treatment.

David Gabell, our Head of Medical Negligence & Inquests commented: “This review is incredibly worrying. For so many units to be failing on the issue of safety is frightening. Ultimately the government must take fast and meaningful action to dramatically improve standards and culture in maternity care in the UK, otherwise sadly more families are at risk of suffering harm.”

At Fosters Solicitors, we help families affected by maternity negligence, birth injuries, stillbirth, and poor maternity care. If you, your partner or your baby have suffered harm due to negligence during childbirth, our dedicated legal team is here to provide expert guidance. We are committed to helping you seek justice and obtain the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to discuss your case and how we can support you.