Government launches urgent review into NHS maternity and neonatal services
The Department of Health and Social Care has launched a rapid national investigation into NHS maternity and neonatal services, following a series of private meetings between Health Secretary Wes Streeting and bereaved families. This investigation, announced at the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) World Congress, is a response to long-standing systemic failings in maternity care, including leadership breakdowns, safety concerns, and a lack of compassionate treatment—particularly for women from Black, Asian, and deprived backgrounds.
Scope and timeline of the national maternity investigation
The investigation will be conducted in two phases. The first will focus on up to 10 of the most concerning maternity and neonatal units in England, including those in Sussex, Leeds, Gloucester, and Mid and South Essex. The second phase will take a system-wide approach, drawing together findings from previous reviews to create a unified national action plan. The final report is expected by December 2025.
Statistics highlight the need for reform
Recent data underscores the urgency of reform. According to the Care Quality Commission’s (CQC) national review of maternity services (2022–2024), 36% of maternity units in England were rated as “requires improvement”, and 12% were rated “inadequate”
Of the 131 locations inspected, nearly half failed to meet acceptable safety standards. These findings echo concerns raised in previous investigations, including those at Shrewsbury and Telford, East Kent, and Nottingham University Hospitals.
Our expertise in medical negligence claims involving maternity care
At Shoosmiths, we welcome this long-overdue focus on maternity safety. Our birth injury claims solicitors have a deeply specialised and nationally recognised commitment to supporting families affected by clinical negligence in maternity care. We have extensive experience in complex birth injury claims, including those involving hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE), cerebral palsy, and mismanaged labour.
Case study: securing justice after preventable birth injury
One recent case involved a child born with cerebral palsy following an avoidable uterine rupture. Despite medical advice recommending a caesarean section, a midwife encouraged the mother to proceed with a VBAC (vaginal birth after caesarean). Labour was induced and oxytocin administered, leading to a rupture and delayed emergency surgery. The child was born in critical condition, diagnosed with Grade 3 HIE, and now lives with severe disabilities requiring lifelong specialist care.
Our team secured an admission of liability and obtained interim payments to fund urgent therapies, specialist care, and adapted accommodation—demonstrating our commitment to achieving justice and long-term security for affected families.
Expertise in the Early Notification Scheme (ENS)
We are also well-versed in navigating the Early Notification Scheme (ENS), introduced by NHS Resolution to identify and investigate potential brain injuries at birth. Our team has contributed to internal guidance on ENS eligibility and reporting thresholds, ensuring families receive support from the earliest stages of a claim.
Legal insight: A call for accountability and safer maternity care
Sharon Banga, principal associate in our Birmingham office, comments:
“These investigations are a crucial step toward long-overdue accountability in maternity care. As a clinical negligence solicitor, I’ve seen the lasting harm caused by these failings. Families deserve answers, justice, and meaningful change to ensure safer care for all.”
Contact our maternity negligence specialists
If you or your family have been affected by failings in maternity or neonatal care, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Shoosmiths’ birth injury lawyers are here to support you with expert maternity negligence legal advice and compassionate guidance.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is recommended that specific professional advice is sought before acting on any of the information given. © Shoosmiths LLP 2025
