Labour MP for Mansfield, Steve Yemm, has called for a judge-led public inquiry into the Nottingham University Hospitals (NUH) maternity scandal following the publication of Donna Ockenden's final review, which examined thousands of cases involving mothers and babies who died or suffered injuries while under the Trust's care.
The review, which looked at up to 2,500 cases between April 2012 and May 2025, is the largest maternity review ever undertaken in the history of the NHS.
Ahead of the report's publication, Yemm urged ministers to launch a full national public inquiry, arguing that the scale and nature of the failings identified require a comprehensive investigation capable of delivering accountability and lasting reform.
Since being elected to Parliament, the Mansfield MP has met with a number of local families affected by the scandal and has heard first-hand accounts of the impact the failures have had on parents and children across Nottinghamshire and the wider region.
Campaigners and bereaved families have spent years seeking answers and pushing for greater accountability within the NHS, with many arguing that previous reviews have highlighted recurring concerns but have not delivered sufficient systemic change.
Yemm is calling for three key measures in response to the findings:
- A full national public inquiry into maternity failings;
- The appointment of a dedicated maternity commissioner;
- Urgent implementation of recommendations from previous reviews, including those led by Donna Ockenden.
Speaking ahead of the report's release, Yemm said the scandal had left a lasting impact on families throughout the region.
“The NUH maternity scandal has had a devastating impact on families across Mansfield and the wider region. Too many parents have suffered the loss of a baby, life-altering injuries and profound trauma at a time that should have been filled with hope and joy.”
Steve Yemm MP
He paid tribute to the families who have campaigned for justice and accountability.
“The families I have met have shown remarkable courage. They have fought for years to be heard, and today they deserve recognition – and real answers.”
Steve Yemm MP
The Labour MP argued that the issues identified by the review point to broader systemic problems rather than isolated incidents.
“This is a pattern, not a series of isolated failures – and it demands a serious national response. A public inquiry would have the power to compel witnesses and examine not just clinical practice but the culture within our health system. That is how we drive real, lasting change for every mother and baby across the country.”
Steve Yemm MP
The final Ockenden review is expected to add further scrutiny to maternity services at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and could reignite calls for wider reforms to maternity care across England.
The Government is expected to consider the report's recommendations and respond in due course.
