Blog
Changes to the ICAS Code of Ethics – what do the changes mean for ICAS firms?
Zoe Beels
30 June 2026
The shocking state of maternity care in England – will somebody finally listen?
Arriving hot on the heels of Donna Ockenden's report highlighting the scale of problems at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, the final report from the national investigation into maternity and neonatal care led by Baroness Amos is bleak indeed. The review investigated 12 NHS Trusts and considered the experiences of thousands of women, their families, and hospital staff. The findings are stark, with Baroness Amos stating "we cannot continue like this" …"there is absolutely no justification for the tragic cases of unsafe care and avoidable harm we continue to see in England." Having acted for children and mothers injured as a result of poor care for over 30 years, I find the lack of progress shocking. I would not have believed at the start of my career that maternity services would be in the state that they are now.
25 June 2026
Beyond the statistics: a birth injury lawyer's reflections on the Nottingham Ockenden Report
After four years, the much-awaited government-commissioned independent review of maternity services at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust has been completed and published. Led by Donna Ockenden, the review was prompted by significant concerns about the quality and safety of maternity services at the Trust.
20 May 2026
Brain injury: the hidden impact of isolation
A brain injury can change a person's life in an instant and the consequences can extend far beyond the physical. One of the most profound, and often overlooked, effects is isolation. The withdrawal from relationships, community - everyday life.
5 May 2026
Acclaim for Martha’s Rule - but when will maternity services be included?
I am extremely pleased to see the continuing roll-out in the UK of Martha’s Rule (see our previous articles on this topic here, here and here) and that a recent NHS England report demonstrates that the rule is having a very positive impact. Patient empowerment and clear communication, the embodiment of this rule, are critical components in avoiding medical accidents and poor outcomes. I am particularly keen to see the implementation of this rule being extended to maternity and neonatal settings, an area where, as a specialist birth injury lawyer, I see avoidable harm all too often.
9 December 2025
Richard Lodge co-authors new edition of Clinical Negligence handbook
We are delighted to announce that Richard Lodge, Partner in our Medical Negligence and Personal Injury team, has jointly authored Clinical Negligence: A Practitioner’s Handbook - Second Edition with Elizabeth‑Anne Gumbel KC of 1 Crown Office Row Chambers.