Maternity review finds ‘most challenging’ ward propped up by poles

In response to the findings at Musgrove, Dr Iles said the report is “quite shocking and distressing for us all to read”.

“We welcomed being part of the Amos review and we have all entered into that openly and transparently. We really want to get it right for women and their families.

“We know we haven’t always got it right in the past and really that report has summarised the poor experiences that women have had… that isn’t acceptable, that’s not what we want,” she added.

Talking about the buildings, Dr Iles said: “We’re part of the New Hospital Programme but unfortunately at the moment that’s been delayed to 2033.

“We’re working hard with the regional and national NHS England teams to see whether something more can be done sooner than that.”

She added she felt “terrible” about the experience of some staff being distressed and upset, and the team would work to support those staff more.

A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Social Care said: “We’ve put the Musgrove Park project on a realistic and deliverable footing, and it will be delivered as part of the government’s long-term plan to rebuild and modernise NHS infrastructure.”