In a shocking twist within the NHS maternity review, staff at the Nottingham University Hospitals Trust have been accused of making “heartless” remarks about families involved. Over 2,500 families have come forward in what is the largest maternity review of its kind, initiated after allegations of significant harm to mothers and babies. Families say they’ve been victimised, accused of joining the review for compensation or being influenced by others to participate.
Trust chief executive, Anthony May, expresses his disbelief over the allegations, branding them “absolutely shocking”. He emphasises the courage of families willing to relive their trauma to drive change in maternity care. Dr Jack and Sarah Hawkins, who lost their daughter in 2016, have been pivotal in campaigning for accountability and change, describing these comments as “horrific” and “unfathomably heartless”. They refuse to be shamed or labelled as “compo seekers”.
Dr Hawkins insists they’re fighting solely to prevent further tragedies, emphasising that their motives are driven by the need for change, not compensation. He stresses the importance of the Trust acknowledging the need for transformation. Mrs Hawkins adds that it feels monstrous for such remarks to come from supposed caregivers, calling for disciplinary actions against those responsible.
Despite the few who might hold these views, May reassures that they don’t represent the majority of the trust’s staff. He’s reiterated to all staff members that such comments are unacceptable, regardless of their origin. More than 850 staff have stepped forward to aid the review, indicating a strong internal commitment to improving care standards. The trust also faces an investigation into potential corporate manslaughter offences related to previous maternity service mishaps. Let’s hope for justice and positive change for all the families involved.