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55 babies might have survived with better NHS care
13 Feb
Summary
- A review found 55 babies' deaths might have been prevented with different care.
- The NHS trust conducted 227 internal studies into maternity deaths between 2019 and 2023.
- Bereaved parents are calling for a judge-led public inquiry to hold individuals accountable.
A concerning review indicates that at least 55 infant deaths at the University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust might have been preventable with enhanced medical attention. Data obtained through a Freedom of Information request shows the trust conducted 227 internal studies into maternity-related infant fatalities between 2019 and 2023.
In 55 of these cases, internal reviews suggested that alternative care approaches either "may" or "were likely" to have altered the outcome. One tragic instance involved Abigail Miller, who passed away at two days old in 2022, with an inquest ruling she likely would have lived if her mother had received earlier treatment.
Robert Miller, Abigail's father, voiced the ongoing trauma and harm experienced by bereaved families. He stressed the necessity of a judge-led public inquiry to ensure accountability and thorough scrutiny, expressing that improvements are not being implemented swiftly enough to prevent further infant loss.
The Department of Health has committed to ensuring families receive answers. Efforts are underway to appoint a chair and finalize the terms of reference for a vital review, with a promise to improve maternity care standards nationwide.
