Maternity care in England and Wales is currently subject to intense scrutiny, further to the national maternity investigation, as ordered by the Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting. The ongoing investigation, which has indicated systemic failings in maternity care, is alongside a package of immediate actions to improve care.

The most recent action in this regard is a strengthened set of clinical standards aimed at reducing maternal deaths and serious harm during pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period in England. Every maternal death is a tragedy but it is particularly so when the death is avoidable. The new standards are to be fully rolled out by March 2026 and it is expected to reduce the number of deaths caused by blood clots, strokes, cardiac disease, suicide, sepsis, obstetric haemorrhage and pre-eclampsia. The above conditions account for 52% of maternal deaths.

Between 2022 and 2024, there were 252 maternal deaths, showing that the level of deaths, compared to 257 deaths in the period between 2021 and 2023. Although this reflects a slight reduction in the number of deaths, overall, the number of deaths has remained consistent and is too high.

NHS England notes that improvements in care would have made a difference to the outcome for 45% of the women who died in the period between 2021 and 2023. They acknowledge that the majority of maternal deaths are caused by medical conditions that pre-date or develop pregnancy such as blood clots, strokes and cardiac issues, not being recognised and addressed until it is too late. The missing of serious medical issues is noted to be particularly an issue for Black and Asian women.

A summary of the new standards can be found below:

• All pregnant and postnatal women will receive early and repeated risk assessments for venous thromboembolism (VTE). VTE are blood clots that form in veins, and are the leading cause of maternal mortality. Anyone considered to be high risk will be given blood thinners within 72 hours. The aim is to prevent avoidable blood clots.
• Every woman with epilepsy will have access to a team that specialises in managing epilepsy in pregnancy, with a plan that is specific to them, focused on controlling seizures and safe medication. The standard seeks to reduce seizure‑related risks to both mother and baby.
• Every woman will have routine mental health assessments, and a referral to perinatal mental health services if needed. Maternal suicides are a leading cause of maternal death, usually between 6 weeks and 1 year post-birth. The objective is to identify concerns early and ensure access to specialist support without delay.
• Any woman that has a haemorrhage or significant bleeding after birth will be given care from specialist obstetricians and anaesthetists. The objective is to reduce deaths from obstetric haemorrhage, and focus on reducing preventable harm through speed, coordination and readiness.

For expectant and new parents, these standards mean clearer information about risks and choices, faster access to the right specialists, and more consistent care wherever they live. For clinicians, they provide practical tools, defined escalation routes and data‑driven oversight to support safer outcomes. The NHS will continue to review the impact of these measures, publish learning, and work with service users to refine practice so that every woman receives safe, personalised and compassionate maternity care.

However, change does not occur overnight and women will continue to suffer harm whilst the changes are implemented. The change also does not alter the fact that women have needlessly lost their lives, having been led down by maternity services.

At Williamsons, we know that approaching a solicitor may feel daunting, especially after traumatic maternity care and particularly so if you have lost a loved one in the process. From the very first conversation, we aim to make the process as straightforward as possible and our experienced team is here to offer confidential advice as to your legal options.