There were 25 infant deaths in Rugby from 2022-2024, accounting for 32% of infant deaths in Warwickshire.

The town recorded an infant mortality rate of 7.2 per 1,000 live births during 2022-24, compared with 4.2 nationally.

The council-led investigation will focus on whether health inequalities and the wider determinants of health have influenced infant mortality outcomes, including factors such as deprivation, smoking and obesity.

A Warwickshire County Council spokesperson said: ‘In recent years, Rugby has experienced a small number of infant deaths which, when converted into rates, results in apparent year-on-year fluctuation.

‘National evidence shows that infant mortality is influenced by a combination of factors, including deprivation, maternal health, smoking in pregnancy, prematurity, congenital conditions, housing, access to services and wider social determinants of health, although no single factor has been linked to changes in local rates.

‘Throughout 2026, Coventry and Warwickshire partners across health, local government, maternity and neonatal services, primary care and the voluntary sector have been working together to analyse local data, understand the factors contributing to infant mortality and identify opportunities for improvement through prevention, early intervention and reducing health inequalities.

‘By doing so, we can help ensure more children have the healthiest possible start in life and the opportunity to lead safe and strong childhoods.'