20%
Of parents said they aren’t confident in maternity care
Shaping Safer Maternity Care for Every Family
We surveyed over 1,000 adults across England and Wales to find out how new and expectant parents really feel about maternity care.
What parents told us, and why it matters
We work with families across the country who’ve been affected by problems in maternity care. Alongside this we recently worked with YouGov to better understand how new and expectant parents are feeling about NHS maternity services today.
Parents told us about concerns around safety, communication, staffing pressures and postnatal support. Many also shared how difficult it can be to speak up, particularly at times of exhaustion, anxiety or vulnerability.
Key findings from the survey
These findings don’t reflect the dedication shown by many maternity teams day in, day out. But they do show where parents need more reassurance, clearer information, and better support — so families feel safe and heard at every stage.46%
Cited staffing shortages as their biggest concern
32%
Of women felt taken seriously during maternity care
41%
Said postnatal care fell short of expectations
28%
Reported mental health challenges linked to their maternity experience
38%
Didn’t feel mental health was adequately supported by services.
Here for parents when something doesn’t feel right
Pregnancy, birth, and the weeks that follow are some of the most important moments in life. For most families, maternity care is safe and compassionate. But when things don’t go as expected, it can leave parents feeling worried, unheard, or unsure where to turn.
If you have concerns about the maternity care, you or your baby received we’re here for you. Whether during pregnancy, birth, or after coming home, you deserve to be listened to, taken seriously and supported.
Our birth injury claims team is part of a wider medical negligence team that is the largest in the country. We have solicitors who can help with:
- Birth injury to children claims
- Birth injury to mother claims
- Group B Streptococcus claims
- Stillbirth claims.
We can also help if you have been referred to the NHS Early Notification scheme or wish to appeal a decision by the NHS.
Alongside our legal specialists, we have expert Support and Rehabilitation Coordinators who will help you access the right local support.
Get the help you need
Contact us today for a free initial consultation.
Expert opinion: Anne Kavangh
“The findings of this report are shocking but sadly, many of them echo what families tell us on a daily basis. Patients feel like they’re not being listened to and that their concerns are often ignored and action delayed – leading to problems and complications.
“Behind every family we represent is a human tragedy of families suffering trauma, loss or harm, and them being left requiring access to specialist support, therapies or rehabilitation while needing someone to listen to and support them navigate a complex system to obtain answers.”