Monday, 4th April 2011

The Royal College of Midwives has been made aware of the discussions over the future of the confidential enquiries into mother and child health.

The RCM is extremely concerned that contrary to our understanding NPEU will not take over this  vital work from CMACE.  The UK has built a wealth of experience and knowledge in maternal and perinatal mortality over the past decades and these review findings have been instrumental in lowering death rates in the UK.  Recommendations have resulted in the development of national clinical standards which have improved maternity services. 

The RCM has been assured that these confidential enquiries will continue.  Further information should emerge in the course of this week and as soon as more is known we shall update this information for members.  The RCM will work with the Department of Health and other stakeholders to ensure that these audits are maintained.          

For more information contact the RCM Press Office on 020 7312 3456, pressofficer@rcm.org.uk.

Update - Read the Maternal and Clinical Outcome Review here (7th April 2011)

Notes to editors
The Royal College of Midwives is the voice of midwifery. We are the UK’s only trade union and professional organisation led by midwives for midwives. The vast majority of the midwifery profession are our members. The RCM promotes midwifery, quality maternity services and professional standards. We support and represent our members individually and collectively in all four UK countries.  We influence on behalf of our members and for the interests of the women and families for which they care.  For more information visit the RCM website at www.rcm.org.uk.