Overview

• Charles Massey will tell a Manchester patient safety conference that fear of speaking up is undermining care for mothers and babies.
• GMC data shows 27% of obstetrics and gynaecology trainees have hesitated to escalate concerns to senior doctors.
• The regulator reports above‑average stress, bullying and poor support in obstetrics, with medicine described as “notoriously tribal.”
• Massey urges employers to foster belonging and inclusion to encourage candour and improve patient safety.
• The government has launched a two‑part maternity investigation targeting high‑concern trusts in Leeds, Gloucester, Mid and South Essex and Sussex before a wider system review, alongside a taskforce of experts and bereaved families, with findings expected in December; Donna Ockenden’s Nottingham review continues.