Please see the following statement on the reported baby deaths at East Kent NHS Foundation Trust.

Clea Harmer, Chief Executive at Sands (Stillbirth and neonatal death charity), said:

“It is dreadful to hear of failings in yet another NHS Trust leaving families devastated by the deaths of their babies. Put simply, these avoidable deaths should not be happening.

“The UK should be one of the safest places in the world in which to have a baby. Sadly, this is a stark reminder that we are currently a long way from that reality.

“Time and again we hear of parents’ concerns not being listened to or acted upon, or that national guidance is still not being followed. If this new Government is serious about meeting the national ambition to halve the rate of stillbirths, neonatal and maternal deaths in England by 2025 they must ensure that all Trusts are supported to provide mothers and babies with the safest care possible.

“Maternity safety must continue be a top priority for the NHS with lessons learned and Trusts empowered to act upon them, so that we do not keep hearing about the same failings and most importantly, more babies’ lives are saved.”

Sands is working hard to save babies lives, improve bereavement care, and supports anyone affected by the death of a baby.

Our free Helpline is available on 0808 164 3332 or helpline@sands.org.uk from 9.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday and 9.30am to 9.30pm Tuesday and Thursday evenings.