Mothers came to harm at maternity unit says report

Mothers and newborn babies came to harm because of staffing shortages and a "toxic" culture at Edinburgh's maternity unit, according to a whistleblowing investigation seen by BBC News.

NHS Lothian commissioned a report into the obstetrics triage and assessment unit at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary after a member of staff raised concerns in February this year.

The investigation upheld or partially upheld 17 concerns about safety.

NHS Lothian said an "improvement plan" designed to enhance patient safety and improve the working environment for staff was already under way as a result of the report.

The health board said a detailed review was taking place into the death in a bid to give the family much-needed answers.

But staff say they fear the risks to patients remain.

"We are afraid we can't provide safe patient care and that women and babies are being harmed," one staff member said, speaking to the BBC anonymously.

"The situation has been getting worse over the past five years and it is at its worst now."

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Source: BBC News, 10 December 2024