NHS Maternity Care Crisis: Baroness Amos Considers Statutory Inquiry
Baroness Valerie Amos, chairing the government's national investigation into maternity care, has not ruled out recommending a statutory inquiry into what she describes as the 'shocking' standards within the NHS. Her interim report, released on Thursday 26 February 2026, is based on extensive evidence gathered from interviews with 400 families and accounts from 8,000 individuals, revealing deep and broad systemic failures.
Families Share Distressing Experiences
The investigation team heard from families who shared their distressing experiences, driven by a desire to see systemic change for future parents. The report highlighted significant examples of racism against Black and Asian women, underscoring the urgent need for reform in maternity services across the NHS.
Concerns Over Legal Incentives and Stillbirths
One of the key findings in the interim report is the concern that current laws may incentivise the recording of stillbirths to avoid coroner investigations. Some families reported feeling that their babies showed signs of life but were denied inquests, adding to their trauma and highlighting potential flaws in the legal framework surrounding maternity care.
Slow Progress Despite Previous Recommendations
Baroness Amos noted that despite 748 recommendations from previous inquiries over the last decade, change in maternity services has been 'too slow'. This lack of progress has contributed to the ongoing crisis, with her final report and recommendations due in June 2026, which could include calls for a statutory inquiry to enforce accountability and drive improvements.
National Investigation and Future Steps
The national investigation, led by Baroness Amos, is part of a broader effort to address the failures in NHS maternity care. Her refusal to rule out a statutory inquiry signals a potential shift towards more rigorous oversight, as the interim report paints a grim picture of the current state of services, urging immediate action to protect patients and ensure safe care for all families.
