The Ockenden Review of maternity services at Nottingham University Hospitals is one year in today.
Last year, Chief Executive Anthony May set out his commitment to the independent review of our maternity services, led by Donna Ockenden. One year on, he reiterated that commitment and continued focus on openness and transparency.
Anthony May said in a letter to those involved:
‘When I joined the Trust as Chief Executive last year, I made a public commitment to engage fully and openly with Donna Ockenden and the independent review of maternity services.
One year on, I reiterate this commitment and offer my personal thanks to everyone who has engaged so far, including women, families and staff who have shared their experiences with the review team.
Over the past 12 months, I have seen for myself the dedication that our staff have given to improve our maternity services. I am clear that we will keep working towards a culture where colleagues feel supported and where we continue to improve.
Thanks to their hard work, we have made sustainable progress in a number of areas to benefit the safety and wellbeing of women.
We have seen a positive upturn in recruitment with more midwives and doctors joining us in the next few weeks, invested in new equipment and technology, improved how we listen to and involve women in their care and we are making significant progress improving our culture.
We know there is more to do, and women and families can be assured that improvements are being made – your maternity services are improving.
We will continue to prioritise our engagement with the review. We meet regularly with Donna and her team to listen to her feedback. We have listened carefully and taken action. You can read the feedback, including the actions we are taking to improve on our website.
Throughout the year, I have heard from affected families who have suffered unimaginable loss and trauma and who have been brave enough to share their experiences with me. For this, I am immensely grateful – it has been humbling and informative.
Listening to the experiences of these families is why we committed to a new honest and transparent relationship. It is a commitment we are determined to fulfil.
For women and families accessing our services now, I want you know that all of us are committed to providing the safest and best experience possible. If you have any questions or concerns, please speak to your midwife or consultant.
I will continue to do my very best to deliver better services now and in the future.
Anthony May OBE DL
Chief Executive
• Ockenden Review: Nottingham Hospitals feedback from maternity review
• NUH Maternity: Affected families to be included in Ockenden review unless they opt-out
