Damning report criticises maternity units

Maternity care at three-quarters of London's hospitals could be putting the lives of mothers and babies at risk, it will be claimed this week.

A survey from Government watchdog the Healthcare Commission will claim the capital's maternity units are suffering shortages of midwives and doctors, unsafe health practices and filthy surroundings.

The inspectorate examined the quality of clinical care given to new mothers and asked them how they felt they were treated by hospital staff. Its report - out on Friday - will reveal that women were left alone during labour, few expectant mothers had the choice to have their baby at home and some hospitals used outmoded birth practices such as stirrups.

Of 26 London hospitals assessed for the report, 19 were found to be "weak" - including Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital and St Mary's Hospital in west London.

Six hospitals received "fair" ratings and only Guys and St Thomas's Hospital was rated as good.

Not a single London maternity unit received the top grade.

In November a report by the commission revealed that 13 London hospital trusts were among the worst in the country for maternity care.

Louise Silverton, of the Royal College of Midwives, said the Government and NHS should see the latest results as a "wake up call" and warned that services were at breaking point.

She said: "There are shortages across the board, especially in London. There are not enough midwives, doctors or even beds. The gaps we are talking about are basic.

"Midwives hate the fact they have not got time to give the care and reassurance that they want to give."

It is claimed 5,000 more midwives and 500 extra consultants are needed.

The latest report will reveal failings across 155 maternity units in England, with hospitals in the south expected to fare worse than those in the north and midlands.