Complaints & Legal Advice

If your birth trauma has been caused in part by poor care, then you might want to consider making a complaint or even taking legal action. You might also want to access your birth notes, either to find out more about your birth, or as a prelude to making a complaint or taking legal action.

Our detailed guides explain how the process works in each of the four countries of the UK: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

How do I make a complaint about my maternity care?

How do I take legal action against the hospital where I gave birth?

How do I access my birth notes?

Other resources

Another useful resource is the charity Action against Medical Accidents (AvMA), which has plenty of information about complaints and legal advice as well as template letters. It also has a free helpline where you can ask solicitors for advice: 0345 123 2352, Monday to Friday 10am to 3.30pm.

The Birth Trauma Association’s board of experts includes medical negligence solicitor Corinna Lincoln, who is able to offer help for free if you’re struggling to get a response from a hospital. Just email enquiries@birthtraumaassociation.org.uk and we’ll put you in touch with Corinna. 

We sometimes hold legal clinics or Instagram Q&As with solicitors, where you can ask for advice on taking legal action. Keep an eye on our social media for details.