The investigation into one of the UK's most catastrophic NHS maternity scandals is set to expose shocking failings at two Nottingham hospitals. A damning report, due out soon, will detail the experiences of over 2,500 families affected by poor care and resulting harm during a period spanning 13 years.
According to senior sources familiar with the report's findings, 'the picture painted is very bad indeed' and 'there are some seriously disturbing revelations that have been uncovered'. The inquiry, led by Donna Ockenden, has scrutinised cases of maternal and infant deaths, stillbirths, and life-altering injuries between 2012 and 2025 at Nottingham university hospitals NHS trust.
The report is expected to highlight a pattern of substandard care characterised by racism towards mothers, among other concerns. With the investigation concluding that these issues persisted over many years, some are calling for a wider examination of maternity care across England. This includes Nottingham Maternity Families Group's plea to Keir Starmer to establish a statutory public inquiry into maternal healthcare.
Health secretary James Murray has acknowledged the severity of the situation and pledged to drive through reforms. He is keen to ensure that this report doesn't suffer the same fate as some previous investigations, where recommendations languished on the shelf without meaningful change.