England is at a crossroads in its quest for better maternity care. The impending arrival of a dedicated Maternity and Neonatal Commissioner marks a significant step towards addressing long-standing concerns about systemic failures in childbirth services.
The Health Secretary, James Murray, has announced the creation of this new role as a direct response to the comprehensive government-commissioned inquiry led by Valerie Amos. Lady Amos's 181-page report highlighted pervasive problems with maternity and neonatal care in England, including inadequate listening to women, racism, and discrimination.
Lady Amos stated that "the maternity and neonatal system in England is no longer fit for purpose" and requires urgent reform to prioritise safety, empathy, and anti-racist practice. Her report follows closely on the heels of another critical inquiry into the Nottingham maternity scandal by Donna Ockenden, who is tipped to take on the new commissioner role.
The incoming commissioner will be responsible for holding hospitals accountable for ongoing care failures and driving improvements to rebuild trust among families in England's maternity system. They will also co-chair the government's national maternity and neonatal taskforce, which is working towards an action plan expected by December. The report detailed disturbing instances where women were dismissed when raising concerns, sometimes leading to avoidable harm, and highlighted a lack of pain relief during procedures like C-sections or assisted vaginal births.
Of particular concern was the experience of women of colour, who reported racism or discrimination, resulting in unequal treatment, delays, and unsafe care. This has led to some women feeling reluctant to engage with childbirth services altogether. Lady Amos's inquiry outlined eight key recommendations for improvement, including a complete overhaul of maternity triage services – akin to A&E for childbirth – to ensure more staff are available to address women's concerns swiftly.
Health Secretary James Murray has pledged that Lady Amos's report will mark "a turning point" in efforts to guarantee safe and high-quality care throughout pregnancy, labour, and birth. He added that the appointment of the UK's first maternity and neonatal commissioner would drive lasting change, ensuring women receive the compassionate and respectful care they deserve.