Wes Streeting has agreed to a full investigation into maternity services at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, following the campaigning of families whose babies have been harmed or died because of the care provided.
In June 2025, the government announced the launch of a rapid National Maternity Inquiry which would focus on maternity and neonatal services in selected Trusts across England. Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust was confirmed to be included in this inquiry, but affected families argued that this was not good enough and have persuaded Health Secretary Wes Streeting to conduct a full enquiry.
Investigations by the BBC suggested that the deaths of at least 56 babies and 2 mothers could have been prevented at the Trust between 2019-2024, and that they had the worst perinatal death rate in the country. Whilst we wait for details of the full inquiry, Leeds will continue to be investigated as part of the government’s rapid review, with the report due to be released in 2026.
Enable Law managing associate Nicola Rawlinson-Weller says;
“We hope this inquiry will identify where Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust can improve and that the Trust will take seriously and act on any recommendations made, so that no other family has to go through the devastation of losing a loved one due to poor care.”
How we can help
The announcement has been welcomed by the specialist baby loss team here at Enable Law. However, we also know that hearing a Trust you are currently, or have previously received care from, is being investigated can be deeply worrying.
If you are concerned about the care you or your baby received, we are here to support you with our specialist team. We offer all initial discussions free of charge and with no obligation to proceed. To talk to one of our experts, call us on 0800 044 8488 or fill in our contact form so we can call you back at a time convenient to you.
