We’re committed to ensuring every voice is heard when it comes to patient care. As part of a national initiative, Martha’s Rule is being implemented across the NHS to empower patients and their families to raise urgent concerns about clinical deterioration.
This initiative stems from the tragic loss of 13-year-old Martha Mills in 2021, who developed sepsis after her condition wasn’t escalated to ICU. A coroner determined her death could likely have been avoided with earlier intervention.
Under Martha’s Rule, patients and relatives will have direct access to Critical Care Outreach teams, providing a critical platform for raising concerns and ensuring prompt action.
How it works:
- Posters displayed on wards include a phone number patients and their loved ones can call.
- Calls will be routed through Switchboard and assessed using a flowchart.
- Clinical concerns will be referred directly to our Outreach Team, who will review the patient and coordinate with the appropriate team.
To learn more, visit: https://www.england.nhs.uk/patient-safety/marthas-rule/