What the national investigation has found so far about maternity care in England
- Healthwatch Reading
- Feb 27
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 17
On 26 February 2026, the Independent National Maternity and Neonatal Investigation published an interim report showing the urgent need to improve care for mothers and babies in England.
Background
The investigation was launched in June 2025 by Health Secretary Wes Streeting to review NHS maternity services across England. Led by Baroness Valerie Amos, the aim is to uncover the “systemic causes of unacceptable care affecting women, babies, and families.”
It includes local reviews of maternity services at 12 NHS trusts. To date, over 8,000 people and more than 400 families have shared their experiences.
Why this matters
The investigation was set up after several high-profile maternity failings, showing the urgent need to improve care and safety for mothers and babies.
The interim report's findings show very serious and long-standing issues, including:
Insensitive or uncaring staff
Racism and discrimination
Chronic staff shortages
Attempts to cover up mistakes
Lack of transparency when families seek answers about trauma or loss
Click on the link below to read the full interim report:
What happens next?
The investigation is still taking place and you can share your experiences. Details are below.
Two further reports will be published in Spring 2026 (no date given) with recommendations on how to improve maternity and neonatal care across England.
Share Your Evidence
You can share your experiences for this investigation until Tuesday 17 March 2026.
There are two ways to contribute:
Women and pregnant people – share your own experiences of maternity and neonatal care.
Supporters – share your experiences supporting someone through pregnancy. This includes fathers, non-birthing partners, family members, friends, or other support people.
More information and to submit your experiences, click here: Call for Evidence - National Maternity and Neonatal Investigation
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