Allegations have surfaced regarding pregnant women allegedly being subjected to offensive treatment at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust. It is reported that the acronym “FOH” was used as a derogatory label for expectant mothers, suggesting they should leave the maternity ward. This revelation came from a staff member’s resignation letter in 2018, amid ongoing investigations into the care provided to thousands of families between 2012 and 2025.
The maternity inquiry, led by senior midwife Donna Ockenden, is examining incidents of stillbirths, maternal and neonatal deaths, and injuries to mothers and infants at the trust. Concerns have been raised about a toxic culture within the maternity services, with former employees highlighting issues such as inadequate staffing, disregard for patient needs, and discriminatory treatment based on ethnicity.
Nottingham’s maternity services have faced criticism for a perceived lack of compassion and professionalism towards women in labor. Reports indicate instances where women were urged to go home despite expressing concerns about their conditions, leading to tragic outcomes. The trust’s management has acknowledged the need for accountability and has pledged to address issues of racism and inadequate care.
The review process has involved over 800 trust staff sharing their experiences, with common themes of insufficient training, equipment, and cultural insensitivity emerging. Efforts are being made to improve maternity services across England, with new standards and initiatives aimed at preventing maternal harm and ensuring safe, equitable care for all families. The Department of Health and Social Care has expressed solidarity with affected families and emphasized the importance of learning from these distressing incidents to enhance maternity care nationwide.
