Released on: 26 February 2026
Responding to the interim report from the National Maternity and Neonatal Investigation, Angela McConville, Chief Executive at NCT, said:
“None of the findings from the interim report from the National Maternity and Neonatal Investigation will come as a surprise to those working in, or supporting women and parents through pregnancy, birth and early parenthood.
“The findings, spanning capacity pressures, poor cultures and leadership, racism and discrimination, poor accountability, inadequate facilities and workforce shortages, echo concerns we and others have been raising for years. And for many women and parents, this report will not bring new information, but painful confirmation of their lived experiences.
“The report rightly emphasises the need for maternity pathway to connect seamlessly with other services including public health, mental health, GPs and social care. When care is connected and provides continuity, women and birthing people are far more likely to feel listened to and respected, to experience emotional and physical safety and to be meaningfully involved in decisions about their care.
“We know this will resonate painfully with many parents. NCT’s own research shows that six in ten parents are worried about the safety of maternity services. Every parent deserves to feel safe, listened to and supported throughout pregnancy, birth and the early days of parenthood.
“The Government cannot afford to kick the can down the road – pregnant women and new parents need sustained, meaningful action today.
“The taskforce to take forward the investigation’s final recommendations must now be established without delay. Crucially, it must be backed by long-term, sustained government commitment to and investment in maternity, neonatal and postnatal services. Without this commitment, the change women and families urgently need will not be realised.
"Individual, Trust-level investigations must continue alongside this national work, so that families receive the answers, accountability and justice they deserve.
“We stand alongside every parent who has shared their story. Their voices and experiences must lead to action - and to a maternity, neonatal and postnatal system that is safe, equitable and compassionate for all.”
ENDS.
Notes to Editors:
About NCT's report:
NCT’s report, ‘From expectation to reality: Parents’ experiences of pregnancy, birth, and life with a newborn’
The survey was conducted by Censuswide on behalf of NCT between 5th and 16th September 2025. It gathered responses from 2,010 parents of children under five, including 500 women and people who are currently pregnant.
