I am a Solicitor and part maternal injury team at RWK Goodman and run the What About Mum? campaign on Instagram. I specialise in supporting clients who have suffered a birth injury or birth trauma, as a result of negligence. I believe every mother deserves compassionate, safe, and dignified care during one of the most profound moments of her life—giving birth. When that care falls short due to negligence, the impact on mothers and their families can be life-changing, leaving physical and emotional scars. I am passionate about raising awareness of birth injury and trauma to give women a voice, seek justice, and drive change in healthcare practices. I partner with charities, advocate on social media, and work closely with healthcare experts to shine a light on maternal negligence issues. 

 It is well documented that South Asian women have significantly twice the risk of suffering an Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injury (OASI) or otherwise know as a fourth-degree perineal tear during childbirth. These are the most severe birth injuries and lead to lifelong faecal incontinence and have a devastating impact on women’s lives. Furthermore, we understand that there are cultural nuances that mean some women don’t feel able to reach out and seek support.

Recently, we have put together a Maternal Injury Guide which we hope will be a useful resource to our clients and for other women suffering, as a result of birth trauma or injury and will enable them to know what help is available and where to turn. 

Here is a link to the current version of our guide  What you might need to know after a maternal birth injury | RWK Goodman in case it is helpful to any women and families that you are working with. We hope it is a real directory resource, signposting all the fabulous charities and support groups that can help. 

If it would be helpful to have a guide translated into any other language, please send an email to sophie.angwin-thornes@rwkgoodman.com.

For further information, check out our instagram page whataboutmums?