Maternity services have come under further scrutiny following a critical report from the Maternity Safety Support Programme (MSSP). This comes after the Care Quality Commission (CQC) rated the services as ‘inadequate’ in June 2025, following a March inspection which led to 101 recommendations for improvement. Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust have reported the highest neonatal mortality rate in the UK and data suggests that at least 56 baby deaths over the past five years may have been preventable, highlighting an urgent need for change.
NHS England Intervention Through Maternity Safety Support Programme
Following the CQC report, NHS England has placed the Trust under its Maternity Safety Support Programme to work towards improving its services. The programme, which was launched in 2017, is an NHS England initiative designed to improve safety and quality in maternity services, particularly those identified with significant concerns. It aims to reduce variations in practice to improve outcomes and provides targeted support to maternity units identified as needing improvement.
Key Findings from the Report
The latest Maternity Safety Support Programme report indicated several critical failings at the Trust, particularly in staff reporting safety concerns which were often dismissed without resolution, and lessons from past incidents not being effectively applied causing repeated failings. It found a shortage of CTG machines has hindered safe monitoring of women during labour, while out-of-hours care suffers from a lack of clinical and midwifery leadership. Communication breakdowns and poor staffing have further strained the service, with leadership in urgent need of improvement and families affected by harm have also faced inadequate responses from the Trust.
Next Steps and Ongoing Action
Through the Maternity Safety Support Programme framework, these concerns will now be addressed with enhanced oversight and targeted interventions. A National inquiry into maternity safety by Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting, remains ongoing to drive urgent improvements in care across the UK.
The implementation of the Maternity Safety Support Programme at Leeds represents a crucial step towards addressing these systemic issues and ensuring safer care for mothers and babies.
Birth Injury Claims Support in Leeds
For families affected by maternity care failings at Leeds General Infirmary, understanding your legal rights is crucial. Birth injuries resulting from substandard care can have life-changing consequences for both mother and child. If you believe you or your baby suffered harm due to negligent maternity care, specialist legal support is available to help you navigate the complex claims process and secure the compensation you deserve.
Our experienced team understands the unique challenges faced by families dealing with birth injury claims in Leeds, particularly in cases involving systemic failings like those identified in the recent reports. We provide comprehensive support throughout the entire legal process, ensuring families receive the justice and financial security they need during this difficult time.
CL Medilaw Comments
Partner and birth injury specialist, Charlotte Moore comments:
“The findings of these reports are deeply troubling. Families place immense trust in the maternity unit, and when that trust is broken, whether through poor clinical governance, inadequate staffing, or substandard care, the consequences can be devastating. It is critical that urgent steps are taken to restore safe standards of care and ensure that no more babies or families are put at risk.
If you or a loved one has suffered harm due to substandard medical care, our specialist birth injury team are here to help, contact us today.
We offer a free initial consultation and can offer a second opinion if a possible claim has been discontinued by another firm. We also operate on a no-win, no-fee basis, ensuring you can pursue justice and compensation with confidence and support.”
