University Hospitals Sussex maternity review to meet with families

An investigation into maternity and neonatal care at University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust is preparing to hold its first introductory sessions with affected families on September 5 in Brighton. The review aims to allow those impacted to help shape the inquiry into the trust, which operates the Royal Sussex County Hospital and three other maternity units.

Beth Cooper, a campaigner for the review and a former neonatal nursery nurse, is seeking answers following the death of her son, Felix, in December 2022 at the Princess Royal Hospital in Haywards Heath. Ms. Cooper reported that despite visiting the hospital four days in a row due to concerns about her baby's movement, she felt dismissed as an “anxious first-time mum.”

Ms. Cooper, who is living with post-traumatic stress disorder, has urged other families who have concerns regarding their care at the trust to come forward, stating that speaking out may provide necessary answers and help protect future families.