Summary
Fourteen NHS trusts in England will have their maternity services investigated due to system failures. This review, announced by Health Secretary Wes Streeting, responds to issues raised by bereaved families and will include past recommendations not being effective. The review aims to deliver findings by Spring 2026, focusing on improving maternity care.
Key Facts
- Fourteen NHS trusts in England are under investigation for maternity service failures.
- The review was announced as part of a rapid assessment of maternity care.
- Families have criticized the review, asking for a national inquiry instead.
- The inquiry follows reports that over 800 baby deaths could have been prevented in 2022-23.
- Baroness Amos will lead the review, which will look into families' and staff experiences.
- The review will address issues of poor care, ignored recommendations, and racial disparities in outcomes.
- Findings are delayed until Spring 2026, with some interim results expected around Christmas.
- The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists expressed concerns about the impact on trust staff and families.
