Health Secretary Calls for Urgent Reforms to Address Maternal Mortality

The deaths of women and babies during childbirth in England have reached alarming levels, with the Health Secretary, Wes Streeting, stating that such fatalities have become “normalised.” Speaking during a debate in the House of Commons focused on baby loss, Streeting emphasized that the mortality rates seen in England would not be accepted in many other countries. This discussion coincides with a national investigation into maternity care, led by Baroness Amos, which is expected to report its findings in December.

Streeting’s comments highlighted a troubling trend that has led to a culture of concealment within maternity services. He remarked, “We have levels of loss and death in this country which are simply not tolerated in others. We have a shocking culture of cover-up and backside covering.” During the debate, Members of Parliament shared personal stories of baby loss, drawing attention to experiences of racism that many families have faced within healthcare settings.

Streeting recounted his own experiences with families affected by maternity failures, particularly in Nottingham, where he expressed dread at the thought of meeting yet another family with a heartbreaking story. He noted the prevalence of overt racism, citing instances where black women were assumed to be “strong” and thus not requiring adequate pain relief. He also mentioned cases where Asian mothers were unfairly characterized as “divas.”

Research from Oxford University revealed striking disparities in maternal mortality rates, with black women facing rates almost three times higher than their white counterparts. Additionally, the mortality rate among Asian women was found to be twice that of white women. Alarmingly, maternal mortality rates for white women have also increased by 27% between 2009 and 2022.

The investigation led by Baroness Amos will be divided into two parts. The first phase will focus on the ten most concerning maternity and neonatal units, while the second will provide a comprehensive assessment of the entire maternity and neonatal care system, synthesizing lessons from previous inquiries.

Labour MP Olivia Blake, representing Sheffield Hallam, underscored the need for the forthcoming inquiry to result in meaningful change. She stated, “Time and time again, investigations into maternity and neonatal care have often revealed the same issues: poor communication, missed warning signs, and families left to fight for answers.” Blake advocates for national standards of care to be followed rigorously, as bereaved parents often find themselves questioning whether lessons will ever truly be learned.

The ongoing investigation and the debate surrounding maternal healthcare in England signal a critical moment for reform. As the inquiry unfolds, it is hoped that it will not only highlight the issues but also drive lasting improvements in maternity services, ensuring that no family has to endure the heartbreak of preventable loss.