# University Hospitals Sussex maternity service review

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/university-hospitals-sussex-maternity-service-review
> Updated: 2026-09-07T05:00:25.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

An independent review has been launched into maternity and neonatal services at University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust. The investigation follows campaigning by bereaved families and media reports suggesting that at least 55 baby deaths might have been avoidable.

The process began with introductory sessions in Brighton intended to allow affected families to help shape the inquiry. These sessions followed reports from families, such as Beth Cooper, who alleged they were dismissed by staff despite expressing serious concerns about their infants. 

The formal review is being led by maternity safety expert Donna Ockenden. During public meetings, the terms of reference have been discussed with families who provided evidence regarding high-risk pregnancies and stillbirths. Ockenden has previously conducted similar landmark reviews at other NHS trusts.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-07: Sussex maternity services undergo independent review

An independent review led by Donna Ockenden has launched to investigate maternity and neonatal services in Sussex following reports of potentially avoidable deaths.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/sussex-maternity-services-undergo-independent-review

### 2026-08-30: University Hospitals Sussex maternity review to meet with families

An inquiry into maternity and neonatal care at University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust will meet with families on September 5 to help shape the investigation into the trust's services.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/university-hospitals-sussex-maternity-review-to-meet-with-families

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Cite as: University Hospitals Sussex maternity service review. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/university-hospitals-sussex-maternity-service-review