An investigation has begun into the significantly higher infant mortality rate recorded in Rugby compared to the national average in recent years. In 2024, Rugby's infant mortality rate was 9.3 per 1,000 live births, which measures children who die before their first birthday.
This figure contrasts with the national average of 3.9 per 1,000 live births for the same year. Across the West Midlands, the rate was 7.3, and in Warwickshire, it was 3.8.
Office for National Statistics figures indicate 11 infant deaths among 1,180 live births in Rugby last year, accounting for half of Warwickshire's 22 infant deaths. Data over the last five years consistently positions Rugby as an outlier within the county.
Crishni Waring, chair of the Integrated Care Board for Warwickshire, stated that the reasons are likely complex and involve multiple factors beyond maternity services. Work is underway to better understand the figures, though identifying specific causes has been challenging. This work will include collaboration with hospitals, smoking cessation programmes, and specialist midwifery support.
Maggie O'Rourke, Rugby Borough Council's portfolio holder for health and wellbeing, welcomed the focus on the issue, stating it will be closely examined.