Improving maternity and neonatal care
We are improving maternity and neonatal services to ensure all women and babies receives the right care, and all children get the best start in life.
Independent review of maternity services
In June 2026 we commissioned an independent review of maternity services in Scotland. The review will make a broad assessment of current and future maternity care needs, with a focus on rural and island services, care for women at risk of poorer outcomes, and workforce and governance.
Read the principles of the independent review of maternity services.
The final report is due within ten months of the Chair’s appointment.
Maternity and Neonatal Taskforce
In January 2026 we established the Maternity and Neonatal Taskforce to provide national leadership and promote continuous, evidence-informed improvement in maternity care, pregnancy and birth outcomes.
Maternity care standards
In March 2026 Healthcare Improvement Scotland published new Maternity Care Standards, setting out clear expectations for the quality and consistency of care women and families can expect throughout pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period. The standards apply across all settings and will inform inspection and assurance activities across NHS boards.
Best Start programme
Scotland's national maternity and neonatal strategy, The Best Start: a five-year forward plan, was published in 2017. Most Best Start recommendations have now been implemented.
Guidance
We have published the following guidance:
- Maternity pathway and schedule of care: clinical guidance and schedule (February 2025)
- Birthplace decisions: information for pregnant women and partners on planning where to give birth (February 2025)
- Racialised Health Inequalities Action Plan, Interpretation Toolkit and Evidence and Data resource (NHS Scotland)
- Delivery Framework for Miscarriage Care in Scotland, and Progesterone Pathway (NHS Scotland)