Maternity insights: closing the loop, learning from harm

This eLearning module supports maternity multi-disciplinary teams in meeting the National Maternity Safety Ambition by strengthening understanding of how clinical decision-making intersects with the law of negligence and contributes to high-quality, safe maternity care. The programme consists of three sessions that can be completed sequentially: an introduction to NHS Resolution and the law of negligence, three illustrative case stories from the Early Notification Scheme, and a final assessment. There are no pre-requisites. Through scenario-based learning, the module explores how clinical actions can lead to avoidable harm, how negligence is assessed in clinical claims, and how early reporting processes work within maternity services.

The programme is designed for obstetricians, midwives, neonatologists, gynaecologists, and students across these specialties, as well as maternity contacts in beneficiary and member organisations.

Across the module, learners will gain an understanding of the function of NHS Resolution within the healthcare system, how the Early Notification Scheme operates, and the legal principles underpinning negligence in clinical claims. The case stories—Natalie, Sarah and Rezan—provide practical insight into decision-making under pressure and how actions can influence outcomes, responsibility, and litigation risk. Learners will build confidence in recognising how choices made within clinical pathways may contribute to avoidable harm and how to apply reflective practice to reduce risk in maternity settings. The final assessment consolidates knowledge and supports learners to reinforce core concepts.

This programme addresses a clear need for accessible, litigation-focused learning that supports maternity teams in understanding the legal and safety frameworks that shape practice. It has been created by clinicians for clinicians, in collaboration with Staffordshire University and London South Bank University, and reflects the learning drawn from NHS Resolution’s Early Notification Scheme. Additional resources—including detailed case story documents and referenced material—are available within the module for those who wish to explore topics in greater depth.

By strengthening the connection between clinical decision-making, patient safety, and legal responsibility, this module supports long-term NHS priorities to improve maternity outcomes, reduce avoidable harm, and enhance organisational learning from incidents. Partners and system stakeholders who may benefit include the Healthcare Safety Investigation Branch, Royal Colleges (RCM, RCOG, RCN, RCPCH), NHS England’s Maternity Transformation Programme, and the Care Quality Commission. Further information can be found in the resources section of the catalogue.