Nottingham Maternity Review: Nottinghamshire Police to launch investigation

Nottinghamshire Police have today confirmed that they are preparing to launch an investigation into maternity cases of “potentially significant concern” relating to the ongoing maternity review at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust.

It is widely known that a review of the maternity services in Nottingham is being carried out by Donna Ockenden and it is set to be the largest review of maternity services to have ever taken place in the UK with around 1800 families’ cases overall being examined.

Chief Constable Kate Maynell confirmed today that it is their intention to “work alongside the review but also ensure that they do not hinder its progress.”When Ms Ockenden previously uncovered 200 avoidable baby deaths within the Shrewsbury and Telford NHS Trust, police investigations were conducted by West Mercia Police into the Trust. Nottinghamshire Police have confirmed that they are looking to the work carried out by West Mercia Police to understand how they conducted their investigation alongside the Ockenden review, and any lessons learnt.

As the criminal investigation commences and proceeds alongside the Ockenden review we will continue to support the families who have approached us for advice.

Jane Williams, Head of Clinical Negligence at Freeths said:

“This news will be welcomed by many families who have been impacted following poor maternity care provided at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust. Our clients are desperate to ensure that lessons are finally learnt. It is clear that the need for change at the Trust is even more urgent.”

Freeths represents a number of families and children who have suffered injury or have lost loved ones as a result of failures in medical care during labour and birth. These claims seek to ensure that any child who has suffered a preventable injury can access the services they require such as care, therapy, aids and equipment, and suitably adapted accommodation which may assist them during their lives. We can also help secure an apology from the Trust responsible and seek to ensure the same mistakes are not made again.

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If you or a loved one have similar concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our Clinical Negligence Team, for a free, confidential discussion.