Released on: 10 October 2024
Responding to the MBRRACE-UK Saving Lives, Improving Mothers’ Care report, the annual investigation into the deaths of women during pregnancy, childbirth and the year after birth, Angela McConville, Chief Executive at NCT, said:
“My heartfelt sympathies go out to the families who have lost their mothers, partners, daughters.
“The NHS failed these women, and lives could have been saved with better care.
Speaking about inequalities in maternity care, she continued:
“In the UK today over half of pregnant women enter a maternity ward that doesn’t meet basic safety standards. And it is the most vulnerable—those in deprived areas, who speak English as a second language, or live in poverty—who are at the highest risk and need support. Black and Asian women are also disproportionately affected by these failings.
“The Labour government has pledged to set explicit targets to reduce maternal mortality among Black and Asian women, improve maternity safety, and train more midwives. Urgent action is needed to turn these promises into reality.
“We must prioritise midwifery continuity of care for Black, Asian and minority ethnic women and women from the most deprived areas. Knowing your midwife throughout your pregnancy can help build trust, ensure care is personalised and culturally safe, and improve links between multidisciplinary healthcare professionals.
Responding to the finding that deaths linked to poor mental health, including suicide and substance use, are the leading causes of deaths between six weeks and one year after pregnancy, she continued:
“The number of women dying in the postnatal period is a damning indictment of our broken maternity system.
“The erosion of postnatal services and dangerously inconsistent mental health care have created a perfect storm where mothers fail to get the care they so desperately need.
“Women and new parents need support at home, in the community, and online that is accessible 24/7. A well-trained and resourced workforce is also crucial to deliver this safety net, with a focus on areas of greatest deprivation and need.
“It’s also important that the six-week postnatal check for mothers, with a GP, is universally offered and includes assurance that care is available beyond this point.”
Responding to news that Covid-19 continues to be a leading cause of death, she said:
“With Covid-19 still a leading cause of death, we must ensure that lessons are learned through the UK Covid-19 Inquiry. Clear, evidence-based information about the vaccine must be provided to everyone during antenatal appointments.”
To read the full report, please click here.
