NHS Maternity Units Face Crisis

a { color: #880000 !important; background: #ffeeee !important; } NHS Maternity Units Face CrisisHealth Policy > HealthA recent Care Quality Commission report reveals widespread failures in NHS maternity units, with 65% deemed unsafe. The findings highlight staffing shortages, inadequate facilities, and systemic issues that have led to trauma for many women. Health Secretary Wes Streeting calls the situation a 'cause for national shame.'

What's happened

A recent Care Quality Commission report reveals widespread failures in NHS maternity units, with 65% deemed unsafe. The findings highlight staffing shortages, inadequate facilities, and systemic issues that have led to trauma for many women. Health Secretary Wes Streeting calls the situation a 'cause for national shame.'

Why it matters

What the papers say

The Care Quality Commission's report, as highlighted by multiple sources, underscores a systemic crisis in NHS maternity care. According to the BBC, Health Secretary Wes Streeting described the findings as a 'cause for national shame,' emphasizing that 'women deserve better.' The Independent echoed this sentiment, noting that nearly half of the units inspected were rated as inadequate or requiring improvement. The Guardian reported that the ingrained issues in maternity care have led to women discharging themselves due to long wait times, further illustrating the urgency of the situation. The New Statesman detailed personal accounts of trauma experienced by women, reinforcing the need for immediate action to prevent further harm.

How we got here

The CQC's report follows a series of high-profile investigations into maternity care, revealing persistent issues across the NHS. Previous reviews, including those at Shrewsbury and Telford, indicated severe failings that have not been adequately addressed.

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