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Sussex Maternity Care Under Scrutiny After Baby Deaths
7 Sep
Summary
- Independent review into Sussex maternity services led by Donna Ockenden launched.
- Investigation into at least 55 potentially avoidable baby deaths occurred.
- Bereaved families are campaigning for accountability and improved safety.
An independent review into maternity and neonatal services in Sussex has officially launched, spearheaded by renowned maternity safety expert Donna Ockenden. This significant investigation was initiated after persistent campaigning by families who have lost babies and media reports indicating at least 55 potentially avoidable infant deaths linked to University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust.
Susan Cacciacarro, who lost her daughter Chiara in 2021, is among the bereaved parents providing evidence. Chiara was stillborn after hospital staff did not plan to expedite her birth despite warning signs. Families are emphasizing the critical need for accountability, transparency, and substantial improvements in the safety of maternity care.
The review, expected to examine over 1,000 cases from 2018 onwards, aims to listen to families and staff to ensure a thorough examination of care. The Department of Health and Social Care has expressed sympathy and highlighted ongoing national efforts to enhance maternity safety across the NHS, building on previous reviews.
