🟠 Moderate Evidence
A BBC Panorama investigation has uncovered evidence of maternity staff at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust using derogatory language to refer to patients, with documents showing instructions to staff to “don’t be too kind” alongside other offensive terminology documented in internal communications.
Key takeaways
- BBC Panorama obtained internal documents showing offensive language used by maternity staff
- Former midwives from Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust provided testimony about workplace culture
- Investigation builds on existing concerns about maternity care quality at the trust
Investigation Reveals Concerning Language
The BBC Panorama investigation examined internal documents from Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust that contained derogatory references to patients receiving maternity care. The phrase “don’t be too kind” was among the concerning language documented in the investigation.
Former midwives who worked at the trust provided testimony to BBC Panorama about the workplace culture and treatment of patients. The investigation forms part of broader scrutiny of maternity care quality and patient safety standards.
Key Elements of BBC Investigation
Evidence sources examined by Panorama team
Source: BBC Panorama, 2024 | Georgian Medical Journal News
Trust Under Scrutiny
Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust has faced ongoing scrutiny regarding its maternity services. The latest revelations add to existing concerns about the culture within maternity departments and the treatment of patients during vulnerable periods.
Internal documents revealed staff were instructed to “don’t be too kind” with additional offensive terminology used to refer to patients
— BBC Panorama Investigation (BBC, 2024)
Implications for Patient Safety
The use of derogatory language toward patients raises significant concerns about the quality of care and patient dignity. Professional healthcare standards require that all patients receive compassionate, respectful care regardless of circumstances.
What this means
Frequently asked questions
What should patients do if they experience disrespectful treatment?
Patients should report concerns immediately to the hospital’s patient advocacy service or complaints department. External reporting can be made to the Care Quality Commission or Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman.
What are the professional standards for healthcare communication?
The Nursing and Midwifery Council requires all registrants to treat people with kindness, respect and compassion. This includes using appropriate language and maintaining patient dignity at all times.
How are maternity services regulated in the UK?
The Care Quality Commission oversees NHS maternity services, conducting regular inspections and monitoring safety standards. Professional bodies like the Royal College of Midwives also provide guidance and oversight.
The BBC Panorama investigation highlights critical concerns about patient dignity and professional standards in maternity care. As healthcare systems face increasing scrutiny, maintaining respectful patient relationships remains fundamental to safe, effective clinical practice and public trust in medical services.
Source: ‘Don’t be too kind’: Maternity staff used offensive terms to refer to patients
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Medically reviewed by Prof. Giorgi Pkhakadze, MD, MPH, PhD. Spotted an error? Contact the editorial team.
