Obstetric and Midwifery failures in Manchester

Today there is widespread reporting of the extremely sad case of a premature baby whom was left to die alone in a sluice room rather than in their mother's arms. This serious incident (and many others) has been revealed following an internal investigation at the Pennine Acute Hospital NHS Trust. This trust manages the North Manchester General Hospital, Royal Oldham Hospital, Fairfield General Hospital, Rochdale Infirmary, Floyd Unit and various community services.

The report sadly outlines a number of avoidable deaths and long-term injuries caused by failures including staff shortages, clinical errors and poor attitude of staff. It has been reported that the Pennine Acute Hospital NHS Trust received the most legal claims and paid the most in damages out of all NHS Trusts between 2010 and 2015. Sadly nearly half of those claims related to harm caused to mothers and babies.

At Freeths LLP our specialist Clinical Negligence team have years of experience and expertise in dealing with injuries to mothers and babies caused during pregnancy, labour, and following birth. We pride ourselves on our specialist, empathetic and personable legal services for those families facing such difficult circumstances.

Our friendly specialist team work from a number of nationwide offices including our central Manchester office, which is easily accessible and close to Piccadilly Gardens. We also offer home visits.

If you feel that you, or a loved one, may have suffered harm due to poor medical care during pregnancy, labour or following birth we may be able to help you.

The content of this page is a summary of the law in force at the date of publication and is not exhaustive, nor does it contain definitive advice. Specialist legal advice should be sought in relation to any queries that may arise.