The announcement that there is to be an independent review into maternity services at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, led by Donna Ockenden, has raised serious concerns for many families over the care they received.
To help families understand the review and what happens next, Alexandra Bennett, Legal Director in Stewarts’ Medical Negligence team, spoke with Richard Baker KC from 7BR and Ben Bradley KC from Outer Temple Chambers, who provided clear, practical guidance for those who may be affected.
Watch the webinar
The session was designed to provide clear, accessible information and to help families understand the scope of the review, what it may involve, and where they can seek further support.
This webinar explains:
- What the Leeds maternity review will investigate
- How families may be involved
- What information and evidence may be reviewed
- Where families can turn for support
Watch the full webinar below
Why the Leeds maternity review matters
Maternity services are now receiving long‑overdue scrutiny following serious and repeated concerns about standards of care. Baroness Valerie Amos’ interim report, published in February 2026, highlighted systemic issues across maternity services, including failures in care, transparency and accountability.
In Leeds, the scale of concerns, including the tragic deaths of babies and serious harm to mothers and children, led the Health Secretary to announce an independent review chaired by Donna Ockenden into maternity and neonatal services at Leeds General Infirmary and St James’s Hospital. These reviews will examine care provided over an extended period, raising important questions for families who received treatment at either hospital.
For many, this announcement has brought renewed distress, uncertainty and a need for clear information about what happens next.
This webinar is designed to help families make sense of the process, understand their options, and feel better informed at a challenging time.
How Stewarts can help
Stewarts’ Medical Negligence team has extensive experience supporting families affected by NHS maternity failings, including complex birth injury and neonatal cases. We understand that behind every review, report or statistic are families living with profound loss, trauma and unanswered questions.
Our role is not only to provide legal expertise, but also to support families with empathy, care and clarity throughout what can be a long and difficult process.
If you have concerns about the maternity care you or your child received in Leeds, our team is available to talk through your circumstances in confidence.
You don’t have to navigate this alone
If you are affected by the Leeds maternity services inquiry and would like to understand your options, our experienced team can offer guidance with sensitivity and care.
Talk to our maternity negligence specialists
Get in touch with Anita Jewitt, Alexander Bennett or Guy Pomphrey.
