Midwife Suspended Amid Nottingham Maternity Probe

A midwife has been suspended by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) as part of its investigation into Nottingham's maternity services. This interim order comes as fitness to practice proceedings are underway at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust (NUH).

The trust, which operates Queen's Medical Centre and Nottingham City Hospital, is the subject of the NHS's largest ever maternity inquiry. Led by senior midwife Donna Ockendon, the investigation began in September 2022 and is examining 2,505 cases involving stillbirths, neonatal deaths, and harm to mothers and babies.

In June 2025, Nottinghamshire Police launched Operation Perth, a criminal investigation into maternity failings at NUH. The scope of this investigation has since been expanded to include potential offenses under the Offences against the Person Act and the Abortion Act.

Paul Rees, chief executive of the NMC, stated that the fitness to practice process aims to address nurses and midwives posing a risk to public safety, not to punish past actions. He acknowledged the NMC was initially slow to respond but has since implemented a new leadership team and approach, leading to more rapid progress in resolving cases. However, he noted that investigations can be lengthy, with some cases involving extensive documentation and collaboration with other agencies.

Families affected by the scandal have expressed frustration over the time taken but feel the NMC is now moving in the right direction. They previously felt compelled to urge regulators into action but now acknowledge the exceptional efforts and significant changes being made within the organization.