In December 2020, there were numerous reports regarding issues being faced by the Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust with their maternity services which underlined how mistakes that happen in obstetric and midwifery care can result in catastrophic injuries for both mother and baby, calling for much-welcomed transparency when things go wrong and improvements across a number of areas. 

Today, in a report following an inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in December 2020 following whistleblowing concerns received about the safety of the maternity department at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, particularly around midwifery staffing levels, there are concerns raised over these staffing levels being below what was required, low staff morale and communication between maternity teams being poor. Overall, the CQC recorded a finding that the maternity services required improvement.

The report makes disturbing reading identifying a number of areas of improvement. Pregnancy and childbirth should be an extremely joyous time, but understandably is also an anxious and difficult time where expectant parents can feel vulnerable. It is imperative that staffing and resource are pitched at appropriate levels in order to ensure patient safety which is the paramount consideration. 

At Anthony Collins Solicitors, we sadly see the outcome of numerous obstetric and midwifery issues that can result in death or a significant injury. We know only too well the devastation and heartbreak that maternity mistakes can cause. We hope that the Hospital Trust can be supported and can act upon the findings to take remedial steps quickly and effectively.