The “rapid national investigation” into maternity and neonatal services will no longer publish its interim findings this year, claiming its work has been delayed by this month’s resident doctors strike.
The review – headed by former government minister Baroness Valerie Amos – was announced in June and originally intended to finish by the end of this year. This was subsequently revised to producing an interim report in December, followed by a final one in the spring.
It was announced by health and social care secretary Wes Streeting in June after months of pressure from campaigners in various parts of England, many of whom wanted to see a public inquiry.
A letter to families from Baroness Amos, sent yesterday and seen by HSJ, says: “I will now provide an update on the investigation in December. I plan to give my initial reflections on what I have heard so far; outline plans for the next phase of the investigation, which will include the expected timeframe for publishing my initial findings; and publish the methodology for the investigation, which you have provided helpful feedback on.”
She concluded: “I understand that changes to the timings for the Call for Evidence and content of the December report will be frustrating for some of you. My priority remains ensuring that families’ voices are heard throughout the investigation.”
One bereaved parent said: “It is worrying, both that the timescales are moving out and that the review aims to be finalised so soon after the call for evidence is released.”
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Source: HSJ, 5 November 2025
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