Baroness Valerie Amos, who is chairing a review into maternity care, has provided an interim report on the findings of her investigation. She has found that maternity care across England is “much worse” than anticipated. The report paints a stark picture of mothers left hungry, wards that were not kept clean, and basic standards of care and compassion falling far below what any patient should reasonably expect. For many families, these accounts are not isolated experiences but part of a pattern of unsafe practices and poor culture within maternity units nationwide.

What makes these findings particularly concerning is that they come after years of repeated warnings. Numerous investigations and reports have already highlighted the same issues; poor communication, inadequate staffing, failure to listen to mothers, and a reluctance to acknowledge when things go wrong. Despite more than 700 recommendations made over the last decade to improve maternity safety, today’s review suggests little meaningful progress has been made.

Behind the headlines are real families who have suffered life-changing consequences. Women have described raising concerns about reduced fetal movements only to be dismissed. Others report being left without basic assistance after giving birth, or receiving little empathy following traumatic outcomes, including the loss of their babies. In some cases, trusts conducted their own internal reviews following serious incidents, raising understandable concerns about transparency and accountability.

Another troubling theme running through the report is the unequal experience of care. Women from disadvantaged backgrounds, including women of colour, younger mothers, and those with mental-health vulnerabilities, appear more likely to receive substandard treatment or face discrimination. This not only reflects a failing system but one that may disproportionately harm already at-risk groups.

For those of us working in clinical negligence, these findings are sadly familiar. The review highlights systemic issues rather than isolated mistakes, poor oversight, inconsistent standards, and a culture that too often discourages staff from speaking up. Where these shortcomings result in injury or loss, families may be entitled to seek legal redress, both to secure answers and to ensure appropriate support for long-term needs.

Here at Williamsons, our specialist clinical negligence team has a wealth of experience supporting families affected by maternity failures of this nature. We understand how daunting it can feel to even make that first call to a solicitor, never mind go through the process of a full investigation or legal case. Our team is here to guide you through every stage with sensitivity and clarity, offering both legal expertise and the reassurance needed during what is often an incredibly emotional and overwhelming time.

Behind every statistic is a family whose life has been changed forever. Many parents describe not only the physical consequences of poor maternity care, but the long-term emotional trauma, loss of trust in the healthcare system, and the impact on their wider family. No parent should leave hospital feeling unheard, unsupported or uncertain about what happened during their care.

Many families are unaware that they have the right to request their medical records, ask for explanations, and seek a review of their care. Understanding these rights is often the first step in getting clarity. Our role is to help families navigate this process sensitively and ensure their concerns are properly addressed.

At Williamsons, we know that approaching a solicitor may feel overwhelming, especially after traumatic maternity care. From the very first conversation, we aim to make the process as straightforward as possible. We explain each step clearly, keep you updated, and work at a pace that feels comfortable for you. Our priority is to secure answers, accountability and the support your family needs.

Today’s report must mark a genuine turning point; families cannot afford for these warnings to be ignored yet again. Safety in maternity care is not optional; it is the foundation every parent should be able to rely on. The hope now is that these findings finally lead to real, lasting change. No family should ever have to fight for safe care, but when they do, we are here to stand beside them and offer the support they deserve.

If you or a family member has experienced poor maternity care or believe you may have suffered clinical negligence during childbirth, our team is here to offer confidential advice and support. Feel free to get in touch to discuss your situation and your options moving forward.