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In a significant policy reversal, Health Secretary Wes Streeting has appointed Donna Ockenden to lead an independent inquiry into persistent failures in maternity care at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. This decision follows a concerted campaign by families affected by tragic outcomes, including the loss of babies and mothers, and aims to address what has been described as a “catastrophic” situation within the trust’s maternity services.
A Long-Awaited Decision
Ockenden, a prominent midwife known for her leadership in maternity reviews, was initially overlooked for this role. In October 2025, Streeting announced the inquiry to investigate the troubling incidents at Leeds General Infirmary and St James’s University Hospital. A report from the BBC in January 2025 revealed that at least 56 infant deaths and two maternal fatalities over the past five years could have been prevented, highlighting the urgent need for a thorough investigation.
After earlier indications that Ockenden would not head the inquiry, pressure mounted from bereaved families and local MPs, culminating in a plea to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer for her appointment. Streeting’s recent meetings with affected families revealed a growing loss of confidence in his leadership, prompting the government to reconsider its initial stance.
Voices of the Affected
Families who have suffered devastating losses expressed relief at Ockenden’s appointment. Amarjit Kaur Matharoo, who lost her daughter Asees in January 2024, noted, “It had been a really exhausting, long road to get to a point where we’ve got a chair that we all agree upon is going to be completely independent.” The sentiment was echoed by Lauren Caulfield, whose daughter was stillborn in March 2022, who asserted that this inquiry might provide the necessary changes to prevent future tragedies.
Ockenden herself acknowledged the importance of this decision, stating, “Families have been very clear for a very long time that their request was for me to chair their independent maternity services at Leeds.” She highlighted the need for the review to deliver “trusted answers” for families who have waited far too long for clarity regarding their experiences.
The Inquiry’s Scope
While the precise terms of reference for the inquiry are still under development, the government anticipates that it will encompass case reviews of stillbirths, neonatal deaths, and serious maternal injuries from January 2011 to December 2025. The review will operate on an opt-out basis, ensuring that affected cases are automatically included unless families choose otherwise. Clinical reviews are slated to commence in August, with Ockenden emphasising the need for a diverse team of professionals to ensure a comprehensive examination of each case.
Fiona Winser-Ramm, another bereaved mother, urged families to engage with the inquiry, stating, “Your experience matters. Your baby’s life and wellbeing matters, as does yours.” This call for participation underscores the inquiry’s potential to not only address past failures but also to foster a culture of safety and transparency moving forward.
A Culture of Accountability
The inquiry arrives at a critical juncture for Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, which was previously rated “good” by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) before receiving an “inadequate” assessment due to alarming safety concerns. The CQC’s findings pointed to a “blame culture” within the trust, which discouraged staff from reporting issues and taking necessary actions to safeguard patients. Brendan Brown, Chief Executive of LTH NHS Trust, expressed a commitment to transparency and improvement, acknowledging the trust’s obligation to rebuild confidence among families.
Streeting commended Ockenden as an “outstanding advocate for families whose voices haven’t always been heard,” indicating a hopeful trajectory for reform in Leeds’ maternity services.
Why it Matters
This inquiry is not merely an administrative exercise; it represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for accountability and safety in maternity care. The appointment of Donna Ockenden reflects a recognition of the need for sensitivity and expertise in addressing the concerns of bereaved families. As the inquiry unfolds, it will be crucial for the NHS to demonstrate a commitment to learning from past mistakes, ensuring that no family endures the heartbreak that so many have faced. Ultimately, this initiative holds the potential to reshape maternity services in Leeds and beyond, fostering a system where safety and care are paramount.
