Record Fine Imposed to an NHS Trust Over Failings in Maternity Care

February 3, 2023

In a follow up to our previous article concerning the tragic case of Wynter Sophia Andrews, it has now been reported that the NHS trust involved has been fined £800,000 over her negligent death.
Wynter died from hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy – a loss of oxygen flow to the brain – which could have been prevented had staff delivered her earlier.

The fine is the largest penalty handed out to an NHS trust over maternity care.

Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust pleaded guilty at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court to two counts of being a registered person which failed to provide care and treatment in a safe way resulting in harm or loss over the death of Wynter Sophia Andrews on September 15, 2019.

Passing sentence on Friday, the District Judge said: “The catalogue of failings and errors exposed Mrs Andrews and her baby to a significant risk of harm which was avoidable, and such errors ultimately resulted in the death of Wynter and post-traumatic stress for Mrs Andrews and Mr Andrews.”

What Is Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy?

Hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a type of brain dysfunction (brain injury) that occurs when the brain experiences a decrease in oxygen or blood flow. HIE can occur before birth, during labour and delivery or after birth.

The CQC Warns Of ‘Concerning Decline’ In Maternity Care Experiences

The Care Quality Commission (CQC), who brought the criminal prosecution case against the NHS Trust, has recently raised fears over a “concerning decline” in women’s experiences with maternity services. The CQC’s latest National Maternity Survey revealed that fewer women feel they always got the help they needed during labour and birth. Furthermore, a significant number reported that they did not feel listened to when raising concerns.

Make Sure Your Voice Is Heard – Don’t Suffer Alone.

We can provide sensitive advice and guidance if you or a loved one have suffered because of negligent treatment during pregnancy or labour. At Bridge McFarland LLP, our specialist medical negligence solicitors have assisted and continue to assist people concerning medical negligence claims surrounding failures of care and treatment received under the NHS and private healthcare sector.

If you or a loved one has concerns surrounding the care received under an NHS Trust or private medical practice, we are here to help.