The family of Mason Hodges are reportedly furious after learning that changes still have not been implemented following Mason’s death in January 2022.

Ellie, Mason’s mother had reported to the Trust over a two-week period with signs and symptoms of pre-eclampsia. These symptoms included high blood pressure and sight loss. Despite her concerns and repeated attendances to hospital complaining of her concerns, Ellie’s symptoms were not acted on, resulting in Mason being born stillborn in January 2022.

An investigation into Mason’s death took place and a report was published soon after. The investigation found multiple failings and missed opportunities to put care plans in place to ensure the wellbeing of both Ellie and Mason, including the timing of his birth.

Mason’s father, Aaron Hodges, has expressed that it “really is the basics, the things they failed us on, which is a concern for future mums and babies going to that hospital ”.

University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust have admitted that Mason could be alive if he had been delivered earlier due to Ellie’s health concerns.

Following his delivery, Mason’s family were reassured that changes would be made to ensure better care. However, the recent publication of the Care Quality Commission (CQC) Report has been damning, rating the Trust as inadequate. This has left Mason’s family feeling angry and frustrated. Mason’s family are firmly of the view that accountability begins at the very top and have fought to ensure that the Trust takes responsibility for the failings that sadly occurred and could have been prevented.

Following publication of the recent CQC report, the Trust has responded, stating that they are committed to making changes. In an open letter, the Trust have explained the changes they have implemented to date and are continuing to enforce.

Lisa Swales, Director at Switalskis and representing Mason’s family states “it is very disappointing to learn the outcome of the recent CQC report. Mason’s family have fought for change since his birth, which has sadly not been actioned. The Trust must take accountability for what has happened and changes must be made to ensure the safety of other families and babies ” 

At Switalskis, we represent many families who have been affected by inadequate maternity services across the UK. The consequences of inadequate maternity services are devastating and life altering. We support the need for change to ensure that our clients receive a higher standard of care so that we avoid the outcomes we are currently seeing.

We invite anyone who has been affected by the maternity services at University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust to get in touch so that we can begin to support you. Call us on 0800 138 0458 or email help@switalskis.com