BBC News has published a damning report which shows widespread failings across several maternity units across the NHS.
While initial investigations centred on poor care standards at Shrewsbury and Telford, and East Kent, which may have contributed to babies dying or having life-changing injuries, the Care Quality Commission (CQS) said these problems were more widespread.
On reviewing 131 units across the NHS, the independent healthcare regulator found examples of good practice but discovered issues with staffing, buildings, equipment and the way safety was managed, and has expressed concern over several other areas, including:
- delays to emergency Caesareans because operating theatres were unavailable
- inconsistencies in the way safety incidents were monitored and recorded, including major emergencies such as significant loss of blood and internal injuries recorded as causing low or no harm
- triage problems, with women facing delays being assessed and not being prioritised properly
- evidence of discrimination against people belonging to ethnic minorities, including a lack of support for women whose first language was not English
According to the news article, 48% of inspected units were rated as inadequate or requiring improvement, with around a quarter receiving a lower overall rating than when last inspected. However, on the single issue of safety, 65% were shown to be failing.
Additionally, the article highlights that in the last year, 13% of all the claims against the NHS were in this area, with large payouts being made to families where babies have been left with brain injuries.
Nicola Wise, CQC specialist care director, was quoted as saying: “We cannot allow an acceptance of shortfalls that are not tolerated in other services.”
“We must do more as a health system.”
Health Secretary Wes Streeting said: “These findings are cause for national shame.
“Women deserve better – childbirth should not be something they fear or look back on with trauma.”
Source: Harm at risk of being normalised in maternity care
Pregnancy & Birth Injury Claims
At Bridge McFarland LLP, our highly skilled medical negligence lawyers are renowned for their experience in pregnancy and birth injury claims, providing sensitive and professional guidance throughout the process. We understand that birth injury cases can be complex and emotionally draining, so we strive to make the process as stress-free as possible. Our committed and sensitive medical negligence team are here to listen and help make your voice heard. We can offer advice and guidance if you or your baby have suffered due to negligent treatment during pregnancy or labour.
To speak to a member of our team today, please call 0800 987 8800, email medneg@bmcf.co.uk or fill in this contact form.
Medical negligence Specialists – Bridge McFarland LLP
medicalnegligence.co.uk is owned and operated by Bridge McFarland LLP, an established and nationally recognised law firm renowned for specialist expertise and experience in this complex area of law. With our determination and commitment to providing our clients with an exceptional standard of service, we have held the highly regarded Lexcel quality mark since June 2008.