On 19 September, the Care Quality Commission published their National review of maternity services in England 2022 to 2024 and it made very sad reading.
Whilst pockets of excellent practice were found, too many examples of poor care were found to be widespread across the country in maternity units rather than being limited to the few high profile investigations which have been in the press.
What were the problems?
- Concern that maternity complications are seen as normal and common by maternity staff leading to a failure to provide information to women about what has happened.
- There was significant difference across the country in maternity triage (initial assessment when a woman in labour arrives at hospital). Sometimes the phone wasn’t answered and there were delays (sometimes severe) in assessing women when they arrived.
- Staffing levels remaining a chronic issue. High numbers of midwives are being driven away from their jobs by working pressures including lack of staff wellbeing support and a working culture which is not open and supportive. Applications to study midwifery at university are at a 6 year low.
- Lack of capital investment has led to some maternity units being unfit of purpose, lacking in facilities and in a small number of cases missing potentially life-saving equipment.
- Communication with women and their families was sometimes poor, particularly for those with protected equality characteristics. This affects their ability to consent to treatment and perpetuates a sense of fear and anxiety.
Rising numbers of claims
NHS- Resolution who manage claims against the NHS in England reported, when looking at claims reported by volume, the amount of claims for obstetrics is rising year on year.
The cost of poor maternity care
When maternity care goes wrong the cost to a family is potentially significant. The loss of a baby or the birth a child with brain injury and lifelong need due to disability is lifechanging for a family.
The cost to the NHS of a successful claim for maternity negligence is enormous with injured Claimants being awarded £1millions for lifetime needs. There is an urgent need for review and reform in the NHS and maternity services are no exception.
How can we help?
If you have been affected by poor maternity care, Jackie and the rest of the Enable Law team are here for you to have a free, confidential discussion to help you understand what may have happened. If you have concerns and questions we can help you get answers. Call us on 0800 044 8488 or fill in our contact form below so we can give you a call at a convenient time for you.
