Frequently asked questions

Why is Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust part of this investigation?

We are one of the NHS trusts selected for review as part of a national maternity investigation led by Baroness Amos.

The decision to review these 14 trusts is based on a range of factors. These include data and metrics designed to capture individual elements of a trust’s outcomes and its patients’ experiences – such as the CQC maternity patient survey and MBRRACE-UK perinatal mortality rates.

The final selection has also been made with a view to working to ensure a diverse mix of trusts, including:

• Variation in case mix
• Trust type
• Geographic coverage
• Provision of care to individuals from diverse backgrounds, including consideration of social, economic and racial inequalities
• Family feedback
• Where previous investigations have taken place.

By taking this approach the Investigation can capture experience and learning from a wide range of trusts, ensuring the findings are relevant across the system.

What are the aims of this investigation?

The aims of the investigation are:

1. To develop and publish one set of national recommendations to:
   1. Drive the improvements needed to ensure high quality and safe maternity and neonatal care across England
   2. Reduce inequalities and promote health equity in the delivery of those services
2. To ensure that the lived experiences of women, babies and families, including fathers and non-birthing partners, are fully heard and used to inform the
   development of the national recommendations.
3. To conduct and publish 14 local investigations of maternity and neonatal services in NHS Trusts and use these alongside other sources of data and
   evidence gathered by the investigation to inform the development of the national recommendations.

Does this mean my care is unsafe?

No. Your safety and wellbeing are our highest priorities. We are proud of the care we provide and the improvements we’ve already made. Our maternity services at Midland Metropolitan University Hospital are delivered in a modern, purpose-built environment by a team of dedicated midwives, doctors, and support staff.

What changes have been made recently to improve maternity care?

We’ve made significant progress, including:

• Recruiting more midwives and support workers.
• Improving support for newly qualified staff.
• Working with community partners to support families facing financial hardship or language barriers.
• Offering digital tools and interpreters to improve access to care.
• Reviewing all cases of stillbirth and neonatal death to learn and improve

The move of Maternity and Neonatal Services to Midland Met in November 2024, has given us a modern, purpose-built environment where mums, babies, and families are cared for by a growing and committed maternity team. The hospital’s design and facilities support safer births, better experiences, and more personalised care.

Will this investigation affect my pregnancy or birth plans?

No. Your care will continue as planned. The investigation is focused on reviewing past and current practices to help all NHS trusts improve. If you have any concerns, please speak to your midwife or consultant.

How can I give feedback about my care?

We value your voice and your feedback.

You can share feedback with your midwife, through our Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS), or by contacting our maternity voices partnership

You can also share you feedback directly with the investigation team by e-mailing MatNeoInvestigation@dhsc.gov.uk.

Will I be asked to take part in the investigation?

The local investigations will invite contributions from women and families who use the local services, but there will no obligation to contribute in this way. The national Investigation will also be conducting a public call for evidence so women and families who feel more comfortable contributing via this route will be able to do so.

You can e-mail MatNeoInvestigation@dhsc.gov.uk.

What support is available if I feel anxious about this news?

We understand that hearing about a review may cause concern. Please speak to your midwife or a member of our maternity team if you have any questions.

You can also contact the Local Maternity Voices Partnership, an independent group of parents, families and professionals who work together to improve maternity services. You can contact them via email blackcountrymvp@gatewayfs.org or visit https://gatewayfs.org/what-we-do/maternity-neonatal-voices-partnerships/

You can also contact our Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) for confidential support – swb-tr.swbh-team-pals@nhs.net

Where can I find more information?

We will continue to share updates on our website (www.swbh.nhs.uk) and via Badgernet.

You can also visit the CQC website for more information about the national review.