Maternity services in England are facing criticism after an interim report found problems at every stage of the maternity journey. The report, led by Baroness Amos, identified six key areas of concern, including racism, staffing, and accountability issues.
Baroness Amos met with over 400 families and received evidence from more than 8,000 people. In a statement, she said it was clear that maternity and neonatal services in England are failing too many women, babies, families, and staff. Health Secretary Wes Streeting has promised to act on her final recommendations, due in April.
The BBC has reported on failing maternity services for over a decade, gathering evidence from bereaved and harmed families at several NHS Trusts, including Morecambe Bay, Shrewsbury & Telford, and East Kent.
Investigation and Response
Orlando Davis, a 14-day-old infant, died in September 2021 after staff at Worthing Hospital failed to spot his mother's hyponatremia during labor. An inquest concluded that neglect contributed to his death. His parents, Robyn and Jonathan, are part of a group campaigning for an independent investigation into maternity services at the University Hospitals Sussex NHS Trust.
Labour MP Michelle Welsh, a prominent campaigner on maternity safety, urges the government to act decisively, including creating a maternity commissioner to ensure care improves. She warns that the Amos review may become a "damp squib" if the government does not take bold action.
Government Response and Next Steps
Health Secretary Wes Streeting announced plans to chair a maternity taskforce early this year to drive improvements. However, the group has not yet been established, with the Department for Health and Social Care promising to announce the membership "shortly".
According to the BBC, at least 55 babies over a five-year period might have survived with better care. The Davis family and other campaigners are calling for a statutory inquiry, citing concerns that the Amos review will not lead to meaningful change.
