Summary
A BBC investigation revealed that better care might have saved 58 babies at an NHS maternity unit in Oxford. The deaths occurred between 2019 and 2024 at Oxford University Hospitals Trust. Families blame missed opportunities and a defensive culture among some staff.
Key Facts
- 58 baby deaths could have been prevented with improved care at Oxford University Hospitals Trust.
- The deaths included 32 stillbirths and 26 neonatal deaths (within 28 days of birth).
- Families cited missed chances and a defensive attitude in the hospital for the issues.
- Every baby death was reviewed to understand the causes and needed improvements.
- Eleanor Taylor-Verlaan's daughter died after being born with brain damage; she believes better care might have saved her.
- The hospital faced criticism for focusing on internal reviews that families feel are inadequate.
- The trust paid over £72 million in compensation related to obstetrics between 2020 and 2025.
- Independent investigations identified key safety concerns, such as foetal monitoring and risk assessments.
