Data released through parliamentary questions reveals a significant exodus of younger midwives from the NHS in England during the past year. Among the 2,949 midwives of all ages who resigned from the health service, 1,669 were aged 34 or under, representing 57% of total departures. This cohort included 205 individuals under 25, 655 between 25 and 29, and 809 between 30 and 34.
The trend has accelerated considerably over the past decade. The 2025-26 figure for midwives under 35 leaving the profession was 59% higher than the 1,051 who departed in 2014-15. The attrition rate among younger age groups exceeds the overall profession average, with one in seven midwives aged 25 to 29 and one in six aged 30 to 34 departing during the period, compared to an average annual departure rate of 10% across all midwives.
The staffing challenges extend to training pipelines as well. Of 3,565 students who began midwifery degree programs in 2021, only 2,725 graduated in 2024, indicating that 840 students, or 24%, did not complete their three-year courses. Since midwifery students spend most of their second and third years working directly in maternity units, workplace conditions during training may contribute to early attrition.
Industry observers attribute the departures to intense workplace pressures. A survey by the Royal College of Midwives found that three-quarters of practicing midwives have considered leaving the profession within the past year, citing staffing levels and patient safety concerns as primary reasons. Officials and union representatives characterize the situation as a staffing emergency affecting the quality and safety of maternity care across the country.
The government indicated that the NHS currently employs a record 25,500 full-time-equivalent midwives, an increase of 2,000 positions since July 2024, and has implemented various initiatives including new staff standards, pay increases, and expanded midwifery roles to address retention challenges.
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