The Independent Investigation into East Kent Maternity Services (the Kirkup Review) has been published today. The report reveals significant repeated failings by the East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust maternity and neonatal care departments, which has caused significant harm to both babies and mothers, and in some cases, led to preventable deaths. There are also findings of repeated lack of kindness and compassion in the way families have been treated both during pregnancy and following bereavement.
As specialists in clinical negligence, we are aware of the pain that these experiences can cause to mothers and families. We also know that the contents of this report will be of real concern for expectant mothers. If you have been affected by the loss of a baby or poor maternity / neonatal care, or are worried about the care you may receive, the following charities may be able to help:
Sands: https://www.sands.org.uk/
Bliss: https://www.bliss.org.uk/
PaNDAS: https://pandasfoundation.org.uk/
MIND: https://www.mind.org.uk/
MumsAid: https://www.mums-aid.org/