NHS leaders say maternity care organisation is 'not fit for purpose'
Summary
NHS leaders in England say maternity care is poorly organised and unsafe, with some smaller units possibly needing to close. They urge the government taskforce to fix staff shortages, outdated facilities, and rising C-section rates to improve safety and care quality.Key Facts
- NHS Alliance says maternity care in England is "not fit for purpose" and risks patient safety.
- Smaller maternity units, especially in rural or coastal areas, may close due to staffing and resource problems.
- There is a rise in emergency C-section births, which adds to pressure on maternity services.
- Many maternity units lack enough midwives, doctors, operating theatres, and beds.
- Black and Asian women face higher maternity risks, and deprived communities have poorer outcomes.
- The government’s maternity taskforce is asked to address these issues and improve care.
- At Barnstaple hospital in Devon, standard birthing services were suspended due to staff shortages, forcing women to travel far to give birth.
- Campaigners warn closing smaller units reduces continuity of care, meaning women see different healthcare teams and lose consistent support.
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