The investigation into infant fatalities at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust (NUHT) is anticipated to reveal the most significant maternity controversy ever witnessed within the NHS, according to ITV News. Donna Ockenden, the leader of the investigation, has expressed her determination to explore potentially hundreds of additional cases following the correspondence between NHS England and the families affected.
The agreement states that cases will be addressed based on an opt-out approach, meaning families would need to actively choose not to provide consent. Hospital bosses and families discussed when and how an apology from the Trust should be made at a board meeting. Nick Carver, The Chair of NUH, confirmed that an apology will be made, “at the right time the families recognise as being meaningful,” after having discussions with them. Some of the families involved in the meeting said that they were pleased with the progress made.
The NUHT Family group released a statement saying: “we welcome today’s pledge from the Trust for a ‘new honest and transparent relationship’ with a sense of relief and optimism. For too long we have been fighting to be not just heard, but for action to be taken, and for there to be accountability. We deserve to learn who knew what and when; why it was allowed to continue; and how the Trust avoided scrutiny for so long.”
Ms. Ockenden initiated her review in September 2022 along with a team of experienced clinicians, during which over 1,250 families and 650 staff members reached out to the investigation, expressing concerns about the care practices at the trust.
Nick Carver stated,“For too long we have failed to listen to women and families who have been affected by failings in our maternity services. This ‘brick wall’ has caused additional pain, and this must change. Families should not have to fight to get the answers they deserve, and we are committed to gaining their trust, and the trust of all our communities by listening and engaging with them.”
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