Over 500 mothers and babies died or were harmed at 'toxic' Nottingham NHS trust, report finds

An extensive inquiry into the Nottingham maternity scandal has revealed that more than 500 mothers and babies suffered harm or died due to inadequate care. The report, led by childbirth expert Donna Ockenden, examined the treatment provided by Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust (NUH) over a 13-year period.

The investigation found that 444 women and 76 newborn babies experienced "potentially avoidable" adverse outcomes. These serious consequences stemmed from substandard treatment and care provided by the trust, highlighting significant failures in patient safety.

The inquiry's findings point to a "bullying and toxic culture" within the hospital trust. Furthermore, it identified a "cruel" and dismissive attitude towards women's concerns, which contributed to the tragic and preventable deaths and harm. The report details how these deeply ingrained issues exacerbated the suffering of patients.