Scotland launches nationwide maternity services review

A nine-month nationwide independent review of maternity services in Scotland has commenced to identify systemic changes for improving care for women, babies, and families. Chaired by Professor Christine McCourt, the review will utilize data, evidence, and direct experiences from staff and families. It will specifically examine care in rural and island communities, such as Caithness, Elgin, and Wigtownshire, while addressing disparities in maternal outcomes, including higher mortality rates among Black and Asian women.

The review runs alongside unannounced inspections of all 18 of Scotland’s acute maternity units being conducted by Healthcare Improvement Scotland. Findings and recommendations are expected by July 2027. Health Secretary Angela Constance stated the review aims to ensure high-quality care and respond to families who have felt let down by the system.

Controversy has arisen regarding the characterization of the service as being in a “crisis.” Some reports have suggested a high number of incidents, but critics argue these figures may be inflated by double-counting serious adverse events and subsequent reviews, noting that negligence payouts in Scotland remain significantly lower than those in England.