Freddie van Mierlo MP Welcomes Inclusion of Oxford University Hospitals in National Maternity Investigation

Freddie van Mierlo, MP for Henley, has welcomed the inclusion of Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in the national investigation into maternity and neonatal services, announced last week by the Government.

The Trust is one of 14 NHS hospital trusts selected as part of a rapid independent investigation led by Baroness Valerie Amos, which aims to improve care and safety in maternity and neonatal services across England. The investigation was announced in June and is now moving ahead with terms of reference shaped in consultation with bereaved and harmed families.

The review will examine the lived experiences of families, identify patterns of failure and inequality, and deliver both local and national recommendations to improve outcomes for mothers and babies. Interim recommendations are expected in December 2025, with a full report to follow.

Freddie van Mierlo had previously written to Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting, urging the inclusion of Oxford University Hospitals in the scope of the investigation, following concerns raised by constituents.

Freddie van Mierlo said:

“This is the right decision, and I welcome the Government’s move to include Oxford in this important national investigation.

I have spoken with families in our area who want to see meaningful change. Their experiences matter and they must be heard. That is why I called for Oxford to be included.

I also want to recognise the hard work and dedication of the staff at Oxford University Hospitals. Baroness Amos has been clear that this investigation is not about blame. It is about learning, listening, and improving.

I am hopeful that a set of concrete recommendations will be produced, specific for OUH, that can - and must - be acted on. They should not be left to gather dust. That is how we build a safer and more compassionate maternity service for everyone.”