5 Reasons More NHS Hospitals Are Adopting Baby Tagging Systems in 2025

In 2025, NHS Trusts across the UK are placing a greater emphasis on infant security than ever before — and for good reason. With increasing regulatory expectations, the need for digital transformation, and a focus on patient safety, more hospitals are turning to baby tagging systems to protect newborns from birth to discharge.

At Xtag Medical, we’re proud to support over 65 NHS Trusts with our CQC-compliant, UK-manufactured infant security system. Here’s why adoption is rising — and what you need to know if your Trust is considering the move.

Infant Abduction Risks Remain a Real Threat

While rare, cases of infant abduction in hospitals do happen — often involving unauthorised removal by strangers or family members. These events are high-impact, high-liability, and can have long-lasting reputational consequences.

Baby tagging systems like the XTAG® Baby Tagging System use tamper-proof ankle tags, real-time tracking, and exit alerts to instantly detect and respond to suspicious movements. With built-in security protocols and 24/7 monitoring, these systems offer peace of mind to both staff and families.

Digital Transformation and CQC Compliance

CQC guidelines place increasing focus on safeguarding and traceability within maternity wards. Hospitals are now expected to document safety processes and demonstrate that robust systems are in place to prevent infant misidentification or unauthorised discharge.

Our Buyer's Guide to Infant Security Systems explains how Trusts can select compliant, future-proof solutions that align with CQC requirements and digital health strategies.

Streamlined Workflows for Midwives and Clinical Staff

Today’s baby tagging systems are designed to integrate seamlessly into the midwife’s daily workflow. Tags auto-enrol during application, alerts are routed to nurse stations and mobile devices, and discharge matching is confirmed visually at the bedside.

Our easy-to-use Touchscreen Client helps reduce administrative burden, simplify care documentation, and ensure fast response times in the event of an alert — without disrupting patient care.

Tamper Alerts and Exit Protection Enhance Infant Safety

Modern baby tagging systems do more than track location — they actively detect risks. If a tag is tampered with, removed, or if an infant approaches a secured exit, the system instantly triggers an alert to notify staff and prevent potential incidents.

The XTAG® system is equipped with tamper detection, lost signal alerts, and full exit protection. It operates independently of hospital Wi-Fi, using a secure, standalone network to ensure reliability even during network outages — a key requirement for many NHS Trusts focused on safeguarding.

Proven Success in NHS Trusts Nationwide

NHS hospitals across the UK are already seeing the real-world impact of implementing baby tagging systems and are often commended by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) for their commitment to infant security. You can explore our range of case studies here.

Thinking About Adopting a Baby Tagging System?

If your hospital or NHS Trust is exploring infant security solutions, we’re here to help. We offer:

• Flexible, 0% interest NHS payment plans (3–5 years)
• Direct procurement via NHS SBS, NoE CPC & the Central Digital Platform
• Free on-site demos and full clinical training
• 24/7 UK-based support and same-day remote service

Final Thoughts

In 2025, infant security is no longer a “nice to have” — it’s a patient safety priority. With scalable, proven, and cost-effective technology, more NHS hospitals are choosing Xtag Medical to safeguard the most vulnerable patients in their care.

For a no-obligation demo or further information, contact us here.