MP Appointed as Government's First National Maternity Adviser
Michelle Welsh, Labour MP for Sherwood Forest, who experienced childbirth within the context of the largest review of maternity failings in NHS history, has been appointed as the government's first national maternity adviser. The Department of Health announced that Welsh will collaborate with families, the government, the NHS, and maternity organizations to advocate for "better, safer care for mothers, babies and families."
Welsh expressed that her personal experience has "strengthened my determination to fight for safer, more compassionate maternity care for every family."
The independent inquiry into failings at Nottingham University Hospitals (NUH) NHS Trust, led by senior midwife Donna Ockenden, is scheduled for publication in June. This inquiry is the largest of its kind in NHS history and involves approximately 2,500 families. It began in September 2022 following allegations of harm to mothers and babies.
Welsh, who also chairs the all-party parliamentary group for maternity, has shared her experience of giving birth to her son William in 2020, stating that their lives were "put at risk by a failing maternity service" at NUH.
‘Powerful Champion’
Welsh commented on her appointment:
"I am honoured to have been appointed as the national maternity adviser to the government.
This role is deeply personal to me. Like far too many women across this country, I know what it feels like to come through childbirth carrying both physical and emotional scars.
That experience has strengthened my determination to fight for safer, more compassionate maternity care for every family.
As national maternity adviser, I will work tirelessly to drive forward meaningful reform focused on safer staffing, stronger accountability, listening to women, tackling inequalities and ensuring lessons are learned when failures happen."
Health Secretary James Murray stated:
"Far too many women and families have been let down by maternity services, and that must change.
Michelle Welsh brings exactly the commitment and expertise this role demands, and I know she will be a powerful champion for the women and families.
Today marks a significant step forward in our determination to make maternity care safer for every mother and baby in England."
Kate Brintworth, chief midwifery officer for England, added:
"I warmly welcome Michelle Welsh to this new role of maternity adviser and look forward to working together to improve maternity care across the country."
Welsh will also serve as a member of the national maternity and neonatal taskforce, established by former health secretary Wes Streeting.
Separately, Baroness Amos is conducting a rapid review of maternity services in England, with the final report expected next month.
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