It is with sadness we bring news that Professor Tim Draycott, a recognised global leader in maternal safety died suddenly in November. Danielle Doyle, Strategic Communications and Engagement Lead, The Healthcare Improvement Studies Institute, University of Cambridge, shares some of his achievements. A new scholarship fund has been set up in his name to celebrate his contribution.
Professor Tim Draycott, one of the most influential figures in maternity safety in recent decades, died suddenly in November after a short illness. His work, recognised across the UK and internationally, has been credited with saving countless lives and transforming how maternity teams respond to obstetric emergencies.
A Consultant Obstetrician at North Bristol NHS Trust, Professor Draycott also held several senior national positions, including former Vice President of the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists and Senior Clinical Advisor at NHS Resolution. He was a driving force behind PROMPT – the multi professional maternity emergencies programme now widely adopted across UK maternity unites and used internationally to improve team performance and obstetric care.
His work and influence extended far beyond clinical practice. Professor Draycott worked with partners around the world, including The Healthcare Improvement Studies Institute (THIS Institute) at the University of Cambridge. Colleagues describe him as a catalyst for innovation – someone who combined rigorous evidence with practical solutions and had a rare ability to bring people together across disciplines. Warm, insightful and unfailingly supportive, he was regarded not only as a leading clinician and researcher but also as an exceptional colleague.
In recognition of his contribution to healthcare improvement, THIS Institute has established the Tim Draycott Scholarship Fund. The fund will support research to improve maternity and women’s health, and aims to help the next generation carry forward his commitment to safer, fairer, high quality care.
Donations in Professor Draycott’s memory can be made online:
https://www.philanthropy.cam.ac.uk/give-to-cambridge/the-healthcare-improvement-studies-this-institute/tim-draycott-scholarship-fund
Danielle Doyle, Strategic Communications and Engagement Lead, The Healthcare Improvement Studies Institute, University of Cambridge
February 2026