Swansea Bay Maternity Review Triggers All-Wales Assessment: A Critical Step Toward Safer Maternity Care

An independent review into maternity and neonatal services at Swansea Bay University Health Board has identified repeated failings in care, governance and leadership which prompted the Welsh Government to escalate its intervention to Level Four, the second highest level. The findings have also led to the launch of an All-Wales assessment, echoing the England-wide review currently underway.

Published during Birth Trauma Awareness Week, the report reflects the voices of over 1,000 people, including families and healthcare staff, and examined 168 clinical cases. While many women shared positive experiences, others described deeply distressing and traumatic care. The review found that standards varied considerably and that opportunities for learning and improvement had been missed.

Improvements to maternity care but there is still a way to go

Despite the serious concerns raised, the report also recognises areas of progress, including improved staffing, better training compliance, and a reduction in perinatal mortality and morbidity since 2023. The reopening of the Neath Port Talbot Birth Centre and the launch of a digital maternity app also signal a wider commitment to innovation and improved access to care.

At Fletchers Solicitors, we welcome the Welsh Government’s acceptance of all 11 recommendations and its decision to launch a national assurance review of maternity services across Wales. We believe this action is both necessary and overdue.

“We fully support the independent reviews and welcome the move towards a national assessment in Wales,” said Francesca Paul, Medical Negligence Partner at Fletchers. “Our hope is that real, lasting changes are implemented swiftly, so that all women and babies can access maternity services that are safe, compassionate and consistent, it should not be a postcode lottery.”

We understand that the NHS is under immense pressure, and we applaud the dedication of frontline maternity staff who work tirelessly to support families. But we also know that more must be done. Our dedicated birth injury team regularly sees the devastating impact that failures in maternity care can have; not only on mothers and babies but on entire families for years to come.

Families deserve maternity services that are safe, well-led and accountable. With the right oversight, investment and commitment to learning, we believe genuine improvement is possible.

We will continue to support those affected and advocate for accountability, transparency and championing better outcomes because every family deserves to start life with confidence, dignity and care.