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Amos Warns NHS Maternity Failings Are Worse Than Expected as Government Forms Taskforce

An initial review cites 748 past recommendations with slow change across services.

Overview

  • Early impressions from the National Maternity and Neonatal Investigation report systemic problems across England, including women not being listened to, poor information for decision-making, and discrimination affecting several groups.
  • The probe records harmful practices such as bereaved women placed on wards with newborns and ignored concerns about reduced fetal movement.
  • The investigation is focusing on 12 trusts, with seven visited so far and remaining rapid visits planned through January, alongside a public call for evidence now scheduled for January 2026.
  • Baroness Valerie Amos expects to publish interim findings in February 2026 and a full report in spring, with rapid reviews not constituting formal assessments of individual trusts or staff performance.
  • Health Secretary Wes Streeting says too many families were let down and will chair a new National Maternity and Neonatal Taskforce to advance reforms as the inquiry continues.