Released on: 05 May 2025
In support of this year’s global theme, “Midwives: Critical in Every Crisis”, the letter acknowledges the growing pressures on maternity care, from workforce shortages to health disparities, and thanks midwives for their continued dedication and compassion in the face of systemic challenges. Sent to the most senior midwives in England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales, it notes the crucial role midwives play in upholding the rights of women and pregnant people, supporting them to make informed decisions about their own care.
“We see the impact of midwives in the care they give, the questions they help answer, the reassurance they offer in uncertain, vulnerable moments,” McConville writes. “And we also see that midwives themselves need care, support and a system that allows them to thrive.”
NCT’s letter is both a message of deep appreciation and a clear call for action. It urges health leaders to prioritise the wellbeing and working conditions of midwives, from protected breaks and culturally competent training to trauma-informed support and leadership. The charity affirms that when midwives are well-supported, outcomes improve for women, parents, babies and families across the country.
This public message comes as the UK faces ongoing issues with maternity safety, equity and staffing levels. NCT reiterates its commitment to listening to the voices of parents and maternity professionals alike and to pushing for a system that truly values the work and expertise of midwives.
Midwives: Critical in Every Crisis - an Open Letter of Solidarity from NCT
Ahead of International Day of the Midwife on Monday, we wanted to write on behalf of new and expectant parents, families and the birth worker community with gratitude, respect, and a shared sense of urgency.
This year’s theme "Midwives: Critical in Every Crisis" could not feel timelier. We know the UK's maternity system is under enormous pressure. We hear it from pregnant women, parents, midwives, and community organisations every day. From staff shortages to disparities in outcomes and overstretched services — the challenges are real, and they are growing.
And yet, despite this crisis, midwives continue to show up. They show up every day with compassion, resilience, and commitment. They hold space for fear, joy, pain, grief and love all within a single shift.
At NCT, we support thousands of new and expectant parents each year. We see the impact of midwives in the care they give, the questions they help answer, the reassurance they offer in uncertain, vulnerable moments. We know that midwives play a crucial role in upholding the rights of women and pregnant people, supporting them to make informed decisions about their own care.
We also recognise that midwives themselves need care, support, compassionate leadership and a system that allows them to thrive. We need to get basics right — midwives need regular breaks, time to eat, and a working environment that protects their wellbeing rather than undermining or traumatising them. They also need access to ongoing training, education and support which is culturally competent and trauma-informed, to continue delivering the best care. Because when midwives are well-supported, women, parents and babies are too.
On International Day of the Midwife, we want to say:
Thank you for being there, especially when the system makes it hard.
We see you and we will keep advocating for a maternity system that values and supports you too.
We stand with you because you are essential, always.
With appreciation and solidarity and on behalf of parents and everyone at NCT,
Angela McConville, Chief Executive
