For every new parent, those first few weeks change everything
Becoming a new parent is undoubtedly life-changing, but the transition to parenthood can leave many feeling vulnerable and unsure of what to expect.
In the weeks and months after birth, mothers and their partners should be able to rely on receiving the right level of professional support. Yet our research shows that 41% of parents with a child under one feel that care after birth fell short of their expectations.
At a time when families are navigating new challenges and responsibilities, uncertainty or a lack of support can make it harder to question care or raise concerns. If something doesn’t feel right, parents should feel empowered to speak up early to ensure issues are addressed and the right support is put in place.
Reality of maternal healthcare by stage
Antenatal care
Exceeded expectations
Met expectations
Fell short of expectations
Care during labour
Exceeded expectations
Met expectations
Fell short of expectations
Postnatal care
Exceeded expectations
Met expectations
Fell short of expectations
Our legal experts are here for every family who doesn’t know where to turn
If something doesn’t feel right about the care a new or expectant parent received, it’s important for them to trust their instinct and raise their concerns.
Almost half of new or expectant parents (49%) say they would trust a specialist medical negligence lawyer to investigate serious maternity care issues, while fewer would look to charities (30%), which are often seen primarily as a source of support and guidance.
33% of parents say they would trust the NHS to carry out such investigations. This highlights the need for clear, accessible processes that make it easier for parents to raise concerns and feel assured that issues will be properly looked into.
By strengthening how investigations are handled, the NHS, legal experts and support organisations can work together to build trust, provide reassurance and drive meaningful improvement for families.
Who parents would trust to investigate serious issues with maternity care
Specialist medical negligence lawyer
NHS
A medical charity
A private doctor
Other
Not sure
Working together to drive change
Our experts have supported thousands of families with maternal and birth injuries. We have a deep understanding of the impact medical mistakes can have not only on families, but on healthcare providers themselves.
That’s why we:
· Actively campaign for better maternity care
· Offer training and support for midwives
· Work alongside our charity partners to affect change.
Together, we can make a real difference to maternity care.