Following a BBC investigation and a damning Care Quality Commission (CQC) report, Health Secretary Wes Streeting has announced an independent inquiry into maternity failings at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (LTH), which runs Leeds General Infirmary and St James’s University Hospital.
Background to the Leeds Maternity Inquiry
The BBC revealed that the deaths of at least 56 babies and two mothers between 2019 and 2024 may have been preventable with better care. Data from MBRRACE-UK also showed that Leeds had the highest neonatal mortality rate in the UK. Families described traumatic experiences, delays in escalating care, and a “tick-box culture” that prioritised process over patient safety.
In June 2025, the CQC downgraded both St James’ and Leeds General Infirmary maternity units from “requires improvement” to “inadequate”, citing serious risks to women and babies, poor incident reporting, and a deep-rooted blame culture that discouraged staff from raising concerns.
Why This Inquiry Matters
Bereaved families have campaigned for years for accountability. Many met with Wes Streeting, who said he was “shocked” by their stories and the Trust’s “unacceptable response”. The Leeds maternity inquiry aims to uncover what went wrong, ensure lessons are learned, and restore public confidence in maternity care.
The terms of reference and leadership of the inquiry are yet to be confirmed, but families have called for Donna Ockenden, who led the review into failings at Shrewsbury and Telford and who is currently leading the Nottingham inquiry, to chair this investigation. The inquiry will run alongside a national review of maternity services led by Baroness Valerie Amos.
What This Means for Families
The inquiry is expected to:
- Provide answers for families who suffered harm.
- Identify systemic failings and recommend reforms.
- Potentially highlight cases where families were unaware that their care was inadequate.
While the process will be distressing for many, it is a vital step towards accountability and safer maternity care.
How Ison Harrison Can Help
If you or someone you know has experienced inadequate maternity care resulting in injury or loss, our specialist clinical negligence solicitors at Ison Harrison are here to support you. We understand the emotional and practical challenges of pursuing a clinical negligence claim and will guide you through every step, ensuring access to appropriate medical advice and seeking the answers and compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for confidential advice and compassionate support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is an independent inquiry?
An independent inquiry is a formal investigation led by experts who are not part of the organisation under review. Its purpose is to uncover the truth, identify failings, and make recommendations for improvement.
2. Why is this inquiry happening now?
It follows a BBC investigation and a CQC report that rated maternity services at Leeds Teaching Hospitals as “inadequate”, alongside evidence of preventable deaths and systemic failings.
3. Who will lead the inquiry?
The chair has not yet been confirmed, but there are calls for Donna Ockenden, a senior midwife, who led previous major maternity reviews, to take on this role.
4. How long will the inquiry take?
No timeline has been announced, but similar inquiries have taken 18–24 months to complete.
5. What should I do if I think I received inadequate maternity care?
If you believe you or a loved one suffered harm due to negligent maternity care, seek legal advice as soon as possible. Our specialist team can guide you through the process and help you access the support you need.
