Related: EastEnders’ Yolande to struggle in baptism dramaThe four women are first thrown together as expectant mothers, who have little in common apart from their due dates, but a friendship soon forms between them.

When Jess later takes her baby daughter to hospital with a head injury that she can’t explain, her close friend and on-duty A&E doctor Liz is forced to make an excruciating decision about whether to call social services on her longtime friend.

Her decision sparks a chain of dramatic events, showing “how one moment can fracture and nearly destroy entire families and friendships”.

The synopsis continues: “As the plot unfolds, the consequences of Jess and Liz’s actions come to light, families unravel and the women begin to articulate long-held judgements against each other. As the truth is unmasked, deep-rooted issues and insecurities are thrust into the spotlight as the women question what really happened to Jess’ baby.”

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Little Disasters will also star Andor’s Ben Bailey Smith as Liz’s husband Nick and The History Boys actor Stephen Campbell Moore as Mel’s husband, Rob.

Joyner, who has previously starred in Shakespeare & Hathaway and Doctor Who, said of her new role: “We meet Liz at a moment when she has to make an impossible choice between her duty as a doctor and loyalty to her friend.

“I’m really looking forward to working alongside this great cast and to start exploring the impact of Liz’s decision.”

Kruger has also spoken about the new drama, saying: “I think this series will offer a relatable story which examines the crippling judgement levied upon mothers by society. The story so wonderfully explores the fragility of reputation, with the rapid unravelling of Jess’ seemingly perfect life.

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