Home / Health / NHS Maternity Units Fail Patients Amid Racism
NHS Maternity Units Fail Patients Amid Racism
26 Feb
Summary
- Black and Asian women report unacceptable racism and discrimination.
- Staff shortages and poor conditions lead to women giving birth in corridors.
- Families report being disregarded and not listened to by maternity staff.
A comprehensive investigation into NHS maternity units has revealed widespread failings, including significant racism and discrimination against Black and Asian women. Patients reported not being taken seriously and facing stereotypes, with one instance of a mother being told she was too overweight to have children.
Staff shortages, capacity issues, and poor hospital conditions, such as leaking roofs and fire hazards, have created an unacceptable environment. Women have described being forced to give birth in corridors due to a lack of space, highlighting a "postcode lottery" in the quality of care provided across the country.
The interim report by Baroness Valerie Amos emphasized that families and staff repeatedly witness the same problems, with a critical need to break this cycle. Issues of accountability, kindness, and compassion were also cited as major concerns, with a reluctance from some trusts to admit mistakes.
The investigation also uncovered instances of discrimination against LGBTQ+ families and non-English speakers, including a distressing case where a family learned of their baby's death without adequate translation. Baroness Amos is set to publish recommendations in Spring 2026.
