Share your views: Martha's Rule

Martha's Rule was developed by the NHS in response to the death of Martha Mills and other cases related to the management of deterioration. It ensures the concerns of patients, families, carers and staff are listened to and acted upon.

A female medical professional placing her hand on the shoulder of another female medical professional. Both are wearing white coats.

Martha’s Rule recognises that those who know the patient best may be the first to notice changes that could be an early sign of deterioration.

We want to learn whether or not you are aware of Martha's rule, and establish the best way it can be communicated to patients and families in Swindon.

Please complete our short survey.

You can also download our poster to share.

Downloads

Healthwatch Swindon poster - Martha's Rule

Download (PDF 911 KB)

Martha’s story

Martha Mills died in 2021 after developing sepsis in hospital, where she had been admitted with a pancreatic injury after falling off her bike. Martha’s family’s concerns about her deteriorating condition were not responded to, and in 2023 a coroner ruled that Martha, aged 13, would probably have survived had she been moved to intensive care earlier.

In response to this and other cases related to the management of clinical deterioration, the then Secretary of State for Health and Social Care and NHS England committed to implement ‘Martha’s Rule’ across the NHS.