Data released through parliamentary questions shows that younger midwives are departing the NHS at accelerating rates, creating concerns about staffing shortages in maternity services across England. During 2025-26, a total of 1,669 midwives aged 34 or under resigned from the health service, representing more than half of all midwife departures that year. This cohort included 205 individuals under age 25, 655 between 25 and 29, and 809 between 30 and 34. The departure rate for younger midwives has increased significantly over recent years, with the latest figure representing a 59% increase compared to 2014-15, when 1,051 midwives under 35 left the NHS.
The attrition trend extends beyond practicing midwives to those still in training. According to separate data obtained through parliamentary questions, nearly one in four midwifery students do not complete their three-year degree programs. Of 3,565 students who began midwifery degrees in 2021, only 2,725 graduated by 2024, meaning 840 individuals (24%) failed to finish their courses. Since midwifery students spend much of their second and third years working in maternity units, early departures from training programs compound existing workforce challenges.
Staffing pressures and burnout have been identified as primary drivers behind the exodus. Union representatives and healthcare organizations describe the situation as a staffing crisis, with three-quarters of practicing midwives having considered leaving the profession in the past year, primarily due to concerns about staffing levels and patient safety. The Royal College of Midwives characterized the situation as a “staffing emergency” affecting maternity care across the UK. Recent large-scale reviews of maternity services by Donna Ockenden and Valerie Amos both identified insufficient staffing as a critical safety concern.
While the Department of Health and Social Care reported a record 25,500 full-time-equivalent midwives employed in the NHS—2,000 more than in July 2024—departure rates remain elevated. The annual attrition rate across all age groups stands at approximately 10%, but younger cohorts experience notably higher turnover, with one in seven midwives aged 25-29 and one in six aged 30-34 departing during 2025-26. Government officials emphasized recent investments including pay increases, staff support measures, and 1,000 newly created midwifery roles backed by £10 million in funding.
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