Maternity care found failing due to racism and staffing issues

An interim review led by Baroness Amos finds racism, staffing shortages and other systemic problems across maternity services in England; final recommendations are due in April and the Health Secretary has said he will act.

An interim review led by Baroness Amos concludes that maternity and neonatal services in England are failing many families. The report draws on more than 8,000 written submissions and meetings with over 400 families. It highlights several recurring problems across the maternity pathway. Health Secretary Wes Streeting has said he will act on the final recommendations, which are due in April. Key findings: - The interim report identifies six broad factors linked to failures in care, including structural racism, staffing pressures and weak accountability. - More than 8,000 people submitted evidence and Baroness Amos met with over 400 families during the review. - The Health Secretary has pledged to act on the final recommendations, which are due in April. - Some campaigners and families are calling for a statutory inquiry, and a previously announced maternity taskforce has not yet been established. Summary: The report highlights systemic issues that affect care across multiple trusts and communities. Final recommendations are expected in April and ministers have said they will respond; the precise course of action and any further formal inquiries remain undetermined at this time.