Today sees the publication of the Findings, Conclusions and Essential Actions from the Independent Review of Maternity Services at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, the largest review of its kind in NHS history.
The report examines the experiences of around 2,500 families and 850 healthcare professionals and identifies serious concerns about the care provided over many years, alongside recommendations for change across maternity services.
We recognise that today's news coverage and discussion of the report may feel overwhelming and distressing for many people, particularly those who have been directly affected by birth trauma. For some, the findings may bring back difficult memories and emotions.
We are also conscious that the impact of reports such as this extends beyond the families whose experiences are directly reflected in its findings. Many people affected by birth trauma elsewhere in the country tell us that each new review into maternity failings can reopen wounds, bring back painful memories and reinforce a loss of trust in the healthcare system.
At Russell-Cooke, we work with individuals and families who have been affected by avoidable harm during pregnancy, labour, birth and the postnatal period. We know that behind every review, investigation and recommendation are people whose lives have been profoundly affected.
Where to find support
Over the coming weeks, our team will be reviewing the report in detail and considering its implications for NHS maternity policy, patient safety, accountability and for those families whose experiences are reflected in its findings. We will share further analysis in due course.
For now, we wanted to highlight some sources of support that may be helpful for anyone affected by birth trauma or perinatal mental health difficulties:
Birth Trauma Association - support for families who have experienced traumatic births:
Bliss – support for parents and families of premature and sick babies:
AvMA – links to organisations and services offering support following baby loss:
Our thoughts today are with all those who have shared their experiences as part of the review, and with every family affected by birth trauma and maternity care failings.
The full report can be found here: Findings, Conclusions and Essential Actions from the Independent Review of Maternity Services at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust.
Please note: the report may be triggering for some readers.
How we can help
Our specialist team has extensive experience supporting families affected by birth injury, maternal harm and failures in maternity care. If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this report and feel you may need legal advice, our specialist team is here to listen and support you. You can find out more by contacting our team using the details below.
Get in touch
If you would like to speak with a member of the team you can contact our medical negligence solicitors by telephone on +44 (0)20 3826 7517 or complete our enquiry form.
