The independent review of maternity services in Scotland has launched today, with a website providing information about the planned process and opening opportunities for women, families, healthcare professionals and organisations across the country to contribute their experiences and perspectives.
By Lisa Jones (Press and Research Communications Manager), Published
The review is being led by City St George’s Professor Christine McCourt, Professor of Maternal and Child Health in the School of Health & Medical Sciences, following her appointment by the Scottish Government in June 2026.
Following the high-level principles set out by the Scottish Government, the independent review will examine maternity services at all stages across Scotland - considering care throughout pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period. It will also look at how maternity care connects with other specialist services including preconception and neonatal care.
The review aims to identify opportunities to improve services while recognising, learning from and promoting examples of good and innovative practice already taking place across Scotland.
Professor McCourt will be supported by a specialist university-based team with expertise in maternity services design, organisation, experiences and outcomes, alongside two advisory groups bringing together a broad and diverse range of professional, academic and lived experience perspectives.
Together, they will examine how maternity services can best meet the needs of women, babies and families across the country. The review will also examine service provision for rural and island communities, as well as more urban contexts.
A key element of the review is listening to the experiences of those who use and deliver maternity services.
The new website outlines the team involved and the review's scope, methodology and engagement plans. It also provides a dedicated contact point for individuals and organisations wishing to contribute evidence, experiences and perspectives.
Professor Christine McCourt said:
"The review team is committed to engaging with women, families, healthcare staff and organisations across Scotland to understand both the challenges facing maternity services and the examples of excellent care that can inform future improvements."
Preparatory work for the review has been taking place throughout September, with the main phase of the review beginning in October 2026. Findings and recommendations will be presented to the Scottish Government in July 2027.
The website will be updated regularly throughout the review, providing information on progress, engagement opportunities and key milestones.