Maternity units across England have launched a new pilot scheme aimed at reducing avoidable brain injuries during childbirth. Nine maternity units will participate in the scheme, with the goal of enhancing maternity care for both women and babies. The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) reported that in 2021, approximately 2,490 babies received care for brain injuries during or after birth.
The Avoiding Brain Injury in Childbirth (ABC) pilots will provide support to staff to help them better identify distress signs in babies during labour. Additionally, it will aid staff in handling emergencies that may occur when a baby’s head becomes stuck during a Caesarean birth. Six hospitals in the North West of England will be part of the pilot focusing on Caesarean births, including Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust, and others.
On the other hand, maternity units at Croydon Health Services NHS Trust, Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust, and St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust will participate in the pilot to detect foetal deterioration. If successful, the DHSC mentioned that the programme could be implemented nationwide next year. Baroness Gillian Merron, Minister for Patient Safety, Women’s Health, and Mental Health, expressed the importance of preventing brain injuries in babies through improved care.
Donald Peebles, NHS national clinical director for maternity, welcomed the initiative to further enhance the skills of NHS staff in providing optimal care for women and babies. The NHS has been making progress in reducing rates of brain injuries during childbirth, and this pilot is a part of the ongoing efforts to improve maternity services in collaboration with Royal Colleges and other partners.
This scheme represents a critical step towards preventing avoidable brain injuries during childbirth and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of women and babies. The government is committed to working closely with the NHS to enhance maternity care, empower healthcare staff, and prioritise the needs of women to deliver safe and compassionate care.