Observatory Chief Executive confirmed as member of Maternity Taskforce

Statement from Professor Habib Naqvi, Chief Executive, NHS Race and Health Observatory:

“I welcome membership of the NHS Race and Health Observatory (RHO) on the government’s Maternity and Neonatal Taskforce announced today.

“Access to high quality maternal and neonatal health services is a right, not a privilege. I look forward to working with the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, and members of the taskforce, to tackle deep-rooted inequalities and deliver urgent action on the recommendations of the independent national investigation into maternity and neonatal services in England, led by Baroness Amos.

“The levels of inequalities highlighted in Baroness Amos’s interim report are unacceptable. It’s critical that we work with NHS leaders, campaigners, academics, third sector representatives, and those with lived experience, to improve safety and deliver the best possible outcomes for women, babies, and families from all backgrounds.”

Background:

The NHS Race and Health Observatory is undertaking a broad programme of work on tackling racial inequalities in maternal and neonatal healthcare.

The independent expert organisation has also worked with support groups and charities to co-produce practical infographics and resources for mothers, birthing people and families.  Many report recommendations are now in operation and utilised across the NHS.