Reported Government’s cuts to maternity funding would devastate safety progress, warns NCT

“At a time when trust in maternity services has been dangerously eroded, and when critical issues of maternity care, safety and equity are putting  lives at risk, to learn of this news via the Health Service Journal, will be devastating for pregnant women, new parents, and families, as well as the maternity workforce and birth campaigners across the country.

“These cuts would devastate the work that has been underway to drive maternity safety improvements in the UK. The funding committed by the government in recent years to boost the workforce and to invest in training, culture, and leadership now appears to be ripped away, undermining the fundamental safety and care of women and babies.  

“This news was published on the same day as the first Parliamentary Summit to end inequalities in maternity care for disabled women and a parliamentary debate on Black maternal health. During that debate The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Health and Social Care promised that tackling inequalities in maternity was “an absolute priority” and maternity health would be “at the centre” of the upcoming NHS 10-year plan. If these cuts are carried out, how can these remarks be believed?  

“Right now, we need urgent confirmation from the government if these short-sighted cuts will go ahead. Parents will be demanding answers – how will the government address the escalating crisis in the UK’s maternity system, and without this funding, how will it keep women, babies, and families safe?

ENDS