Nottingham maternity trust faces calls for accountability amid scandal

Families affected by the Nottingham maternity scandal are demanding accountability as the Nottingham University Hospitals (NUH) NHS Trust prepares for its annual public meeting. An extensive inquiry, the largest of its kind in NHS history, is currently investigating the care provided to thousands of families over a decade, focusing on nearly 2,000 cases involving severe harm or death of mothers and babies since 2012. Despite two years of investigation, campaigners express frustration that no individuals at the trust have faced investigation or disciplinary action for the alleged harm caused. The inquiry, led by senior midwife Donna Ockenden, was initiated in September 2022 and aims to uncover the reasons behind the failures in maternity care. Families, including Jack and Sarah Hawkins, whose daughter died in 2016, have been vocal in their calls for accountability, emphasizing the need for transparency and justice for those affected. They highlight the emotional toll and the lack of response from the trust regarding the experiences shared by families. In response to the ongoing scrutiny, NUH has committed to implementing five key improvements to its maternity services, including establishing a liaison service for families and providing ongoing psychological support. These commitments are intended to foster better communication and support for families who have experienced distressing events during their maternity care. The trust's Chief Executive, Anthony May, acknowledged the importance of these commitments and expressed gratitude to families for sharing their experiences. As the inquiry continues, the focus remains on ensuring that lessons are learned and that the trust takes meaningful steps to prevent future tragedies in maternity care.