The state of maternity care within the NHS has been a serious concern lately, and recent investigations have really brought to light just how widespread the problems are.
Kiran Parmar, Wadsworths Acting Head of Clinical Negligence, explains whilst it’s a tough truth to hear, nearly half of all maternity units in England are currently rated as inadequate or requiring improvement by the Care Quality Commission. That’s a significant number, and it points to deep-rooted issues.
We’re talking about things like staff shortages, which mean fewer hands on deck when every second counts. There’s also been a breakdown in communication, which can have devastating consequences. Plus, some environments just aren’t as safe as they should be for expectant mothers and their babies.
One of the most alarming findings is the persistent racial disparities. Black and Asian women, tragically, face significantly higher maternal death rates. This is a stark reminder that fairness and equality in healthcare are not just ideals, but urgent necessities.
We’ve all heard the heartbreaking stories from places like Nottingham, East Kent, and Shrewsbury & Telford. These high-profile scandals exposed avoidable baby deaths and brain injuries, along with serious cultural problems within these units. We’re talking about things like discrimination, poor leadership, and a lack of accountability. It’s truly shocking.
Thankfully, there’s movement on this front. On June 23, 2025, Health Secretary Wes Streeting launched a new national investigation to tackle these issues head-on. This includes:
• Immediate reviews of 10 high-risk NHS trusts to get a rapid handle on their situations.
• The formation of a National Maternity and Neonatal Taskforce to bring together experts and drive change.
• A commitment to deliver a strategic plan for reform by December 2025.
The government is pledging to improve safety, staffing, training, communication, and, crucially, to actively combat racial bias within the system. While these steps are welcome, campaigners and the brave bereaved families who have been sharing their stories are right to emphasise that we need meaningful, lasting change – not just more reviews. Protecting mothers and babies must be the absolute priority.
If any of the issues raised here resonate with your experience or that of a loved one, please don’t hesitate to speak to our team. We’re here to help and can provide support and guidance.