Recommendations to support safer care for every birth
Through listening and learning, we can work together to turn lived experience into better care. Based on our casework and what parents and healthcare providers have shared with us, we’ve identified six recommendations that could help to improve maternity services in the future.
Implement existing recommendations consistently
Initial findings from the Amos Review highlight that nearly 750 recommendations made over the last ten years haven’t been fully implemented. A more unified approach to tracking, prioritising and implementing recommendations could help ensure improvements are delivered more consistently.
Improve staffing
levels and
support
We know that staffing shortages are one of the biggest concerns for parents. Under-resourced maternity teams are one of the most frequently cited issues, with a lack of adequate support for staff themselves also highlighted as a key concern.
Investing in staffing levels, training and staff wellbeing would not only support those delivering care, but could also help improve safety and outcomes for families.
Strengthen Governance and Oversight
Structures
Several reports have described maternity units operating too independently, with governance systems that lack coherence or scrutiny. National governance standards should be introduced alongside clear accountability as to who is responsible for introduction.
Ensure timely, effective risk assessment and triage
Delays in maternity care and failures to escalate the care of mums and babies is a repeated concern. There should be improved training to recognise complications earlier so better care can be provided.
More effective communication
Many parents – particularly mothers – report that they don’t feel listened to during their care, which can undermine trust and confidence in maternity services.
Patient voice should be embedded in all care and where needed, staff should undertake communication and empathy training.
Enhanced support throughout the maternity journey
Our survey found that 28% of parents report anxiety or depression linked to their maternity experience, yet only 33% believe mental health support is adequate. Poor mental health outcomes are strongly linked to traumatic birth experiences. Post-natal community services should be expanded to provide ongoing support for women and babies in that critical ‘fourth trimester.’