Health Secretary Wes Streeting has expressed his deep concern regarding the families affected by the tragic deaths of several infants linked to maternity services in Leeds. As the inquiry into the Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust unfolds, Streeting has acknowledged the erosion of trust and is determined to engage with bereaved families to ensure their voices are heard.
Inquiry Announcement and Family Concerns
In October, following a revealing BBC investigation, Streeting announced a formal inquiry into the maternity services at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. The report indicated that the deaths of at least 56 babies over the past five years could potentially have been avoided. However, despite the announcement, the inquiry has faced criticism due to the absence of a designated chair, prompting some families to call for intervention from Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
Streeting is set to meet with affected families on Monday afternoon, aiming to rebuild confidence in the inquiry process. In a statement, he emphasised the importance of transparency and accountability, stating, “Losing a baby is devastating beyond words, and you deserve not just answers, but a process you can trust.” He acknowledged the immense strength demonstrated by bereaved families during this harrowing time, pledging that the inquiry would be thorough, independent, and centred on the needs of the families.
Families Demand Action
A letter written by five MPs, which reached Downing Street earlier this month, highlighted the growing discontent among families regarding the inquiry’s handling. The MPs noted a significant loss of faith in the Health Secretary’s approach, particularly concerning delays and the potential appointment of a chair who might employ an “untested and unrefined methodology.”
The families have urged the government to appoint senior midwife Donna Ockenden as the chair of the inquiry. Ockenden is currently overseeing a significant investigation into maternity services in Nottingham, which is scrutinising approximately 2,500 cases of reported failings. She has publicly stated her readiness to chair the review into Leeds maternity services and expressed her willingness to commence work immediately if requested.
Among those advocating for change are Fiona Winser-Ramm and Dan Ramm, whose daughter Aliona tragically passed away in January 2020 at Leeds General Infirmary. An inquest into her death identified numerous “gross failures” that directly contributed to the tragedy. Winser-Ramm has articulated her frustration, noting, “When we’ve met with the Secretary of State, he is often saying the right things to us, but it isn’t translating into what is proposed for the inquiry by the Department of Health.”
Commitment to Change
In response to the families’ concerns, a spokesperson for Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust stated that they are taking “significant steps to address improvements” within their maternity services. This commitment comes in light of the inquiry’s findings and the emotional toll on families who have suffered unimaginable loss.
Streeting’s forthcoming meeting with bereaved families represents a pivotal moment for the inquiry. His focus on rebuilding trust and ensuring that the inquiry yields truthful answers reflects a broader commitment to addressing the systemic issues within maternity services.
As the inquiry progresses, the importance of involving families in the process cannot be overstated. Their experiences and insights are critical in shaping a more compassionate and effective healthcare system.
Why it Matters
The ongoing inquiry into Leeds maternity services is not merely about accountability; it represents a crucial opportunity for systemic change within the NHS. The distressing experiences of bereaved families must serve as a catalyst for reform, ensuring that no family endures similar tragedies in the future. By prioritising transparency and collaboration, the inquiry holds the potential to restore faith in maternity care, ultimately saving lives and providing a lifeline to those who need it most.
