A leading expert has criticised the Ockenden report for neglecting the experiences of pregnant women, arguing that the inquiry into maternity scandals has failed to address systemic failures in care. The report, which examined failings at the Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust, has been accused of overlooking the voices of women who suffered harm.
Expert highlights gaps in Ockenden report
Professor Marian Knight, a maternal health specialist, said the report did not fully capture the extent of neglect faced by pregnant women. "The Ockenden report is a crucial step, but it has not gone far enough in recognising the systemic issues that led to these tragedies," she told The Guardian. "We need a fundamental shift in how maternity services are delivered."
The inquiry, led by Donna Ockenden, reviewed over 1,500 cases of poor maternity care, including stillbirths, brain injuries, and maternal deaths. However, critics argue that the recommendations focus too heavily on individual failings rather than broader cultural and resource problems.
Systemic failures in maternity care
According to the report, there were 27 cases of avoidable stillbirths and 18 cases of brain damage due to delayed interventions. Yet Knight emphasised that these numbers only tell part of the story. "Many women have been left with lifelong physical and psychological scars," she said. "The system must be held accountable."
Health Secretary Steve Barclay welcomed the report but acknowledged that "more needs to be done" to rebuild trust. The government has pledged £127 million to improve maternity safety, but campaigners say this is insufficient.
Impact on pregnant women
The neglect identified in the report has had devastating consequences for families. One mother, who wished to remain anonymous, said she had been dismissed by staff when she raised concerns about her baby's movements. "I was told I was being anxious, but my son died hours later," she said. "The system failed us."
Knight called for mandatory training for all maternity staff and better staffing levels. "Without addressing the root causes, we will continue to see these tragedies," she warned.
