Maternity services across Scotland to be reviewed following damning reports

A nationwide review of maternity services in Scotland will go ahead following a series of damning reports across several health boards.

The decision by the Scottish Government comes less than 24 hours after health secretary Neil Gray failed to commit to a review.

Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS) revealed last week that staffing shortages and a “culture of mistrust” have led to delays and patients being harmed at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, where 26 areas of required standards had not been met.

In a motion passed by MSPs earlier this week, Gray said a national investigation into the design and delivery of maternity services would take place only if Scotland’s new Maternity and Neonatal Taskforce recommended it.

On Thursday, public health minister Jenni Minto confirmed that an investigation would in fact go ahead.

In a letter to party spokespeople, she said the taskforce will determine the scope of the review.

The Scottish Government’s announcement comes after bereaved parents attended Holyrood to campaign for a national inquiry on Wednesday.

Labour welcomed the change but pointed out that the U-turn came just a day after SNP MSPs voted against their calls for a national inquiry.

Deputy Scottish Labour leader Jackie Baillie said: “It is crucial that this investigation goes ahead with the urgency needed and covers both maternity and neonatal care.

“Too many women and babies have been let down when it matters most, and their experiences must be at the heart of this review.

“It is crucial that this investigation provides a clear picture of what is going on in maternity and neonatal services in Scotland, and crucially it must lead to meaningful action to improve these services.”