MNSI responds to the Independent Investigation into Maternity and Neonatal Services in England

Responding to the publication of the Independent Investigation into Maternity and Neonatal Services, Sandy Lewis, Programme Director at MNSI, said:

"Families have waited a long time for change in maternity and newborn care. Alongside the independent review at Nottingham University Hospitals, this review adds to a clear and consistent picture of what must change. We welcome the report, the recommendations made and we keep the families who have campaigned for it firmly in mind today and always.

"This review sets out a clear national direction. The commitment to new standards for maternity triage is vital. Triage is the first point of assessment and getting it right means risks are recognised and acted on early. This needs support from obstetricians as well as midwives, with recognition of when other clinical expertise is needed. It is one of the themes we see in investigations across England and clear national standards will help trusts deliver safer, more consistent care.

"We welcome the national action plan to overhaul services, due to be published in December, and the additional £41 million for infrastructure. We also recognise the steps already underway, including increased mental health support, the equalities dashboard and the extension of Martha's rule in supporting the improvements we all want for maternity and newborn care in England.

“This review must mark a shift from describing the problem to fixing it. The recommendations are clear and MNSI is committed to playing its part, so that the safer care this review and the independent review into Nottingham University Hospitals set out becomes the care every family receives. With the right support, the right standards and a relentless focus on women, babies and families, this can be the point at which lasting change in maternity and newborn care is made.”

To find out more about MNSI's work investigating maternity and newborn safety, and how this supports learning across the NHS, visit www.mnsi.org.uk.