The Issue: Why We're Speaking Out

Every mother and baby deserves safe, compassionate, and high-quality maternity care. However, recent investigations and reports have brought to light serious shortcomings in maternity services across Somerset, Dorset, and Devon. These issues are not isolated incidents—they represent systemic problems that demand urgent attention.

As a mother who gave birth in a Somerset hospital, I’ve seen the cracks in our local maternity system first hand. While many individual midwives, nurses, and doctors work tirelessly under difficult conditions, they are often let down by the very system meant to support them and the families they care for.

This isn't just my story—it's the shared experience of countless women across our region. Through conversations with other mothers, it's clear that we are facing a pattern of avoidable issues caused not by a lack of care or commitment, but by:

✅ Chronic staff shortages leaving midwives and doctors overstretched and exhausted.
✅ Inadequate funding limiting access to necessary equipment, beds, and support services.
✅ Insufficient training and ongoing development for healthcare teams.
✅ A worrying lack of oversight and accountability when standards fall short.

These systemic failures can have life-altering consequences for parents and their babies. They can turn what should be a joyful time into one of anxiety, trauma, or even tragedy.

Why We Need a Public Inquiry:

We are calling for an independent and comprehensive public inquiry into maternity care across Somerset, Dorset, and Devon. This is more than just a review—it’s a vital step toward ensuring no family has to go through what so many already have.

A public inquiry would:

Investigate the root causes of current failures and identify clear, evidence-based solutions.
Provide a plan for sustainable improvements, including better training and staff support.
Highlight urgent facility and resource needs to ensure safe and modern care environments.
Give families a voice, rebuild trust, and restore dignity to the birthing experience.

 
Your Voice Matters:
When we come together and raise our voices, we can push for the change our communities so desperately need.

By signing this petition, you’re standing with mothers, families, and NHS staff who want better for everyone. You’re demanding that no one should face fear, neglect, or trauma during what should be one of life’s most beautiful moments.

Add your name today. Help us send a clear message: Every mother and baby deserves care that is safe, respectful, and worthy of their trust.

Together, we can create a future where maternity services uplift and empower every family—before, during, and after birth.