Government Orders National Inquiry into NHS Maternity Services
Health Secretary Wes Streeting has launched a fast-tracked national investigation into England’s NHS maternity and neonatal services after meeting bereaved families devastated by years of care failures. Starting this summer, the investigation will examine the most troubled units, including in Leeds, Sussex, Gloucester, and Mid and South Essex, while also reviewing the entire system to deliver “one clear, national set of actions” by December 2025.
“This is devastating – deeply painful stories of trauma, loss, and a lack of basic compassion,” Streeting said, vowing to give families “the truth and the accountability they deserve.” The review follows scandals in Morecambe Bay, East Kent, Shrewsbury and Telford, and Nottingham. Families, clinicians, and experts will help shape the inquiry to ensure it reflects real experiences and leads to urgent reforms.
Immediate steps are already being taken, including a new digital system to flag safety concerns and an anti-discrimination program to address inequalities faced by Black, Asian, and deprived communities. NHS leaders stressed that while most births are safe, serious issues in safety, culture, and leadership must be fixed to rebuild trust and deliver compassionate care for all.
