A review of maternity services in Scotland has begun examining how can be improved for women, babies and families.

The review will be chaired by maternal and child health expert Professor Christine McCourt and will draw on data, evidence and direct experiences of women, families and staff at every level of care to take a whole-system approach.

In particular, the review will pay attention to how care is provided in rural and island communities, with specific focus on services in Caithness, Elgin and Wigtownshire. It will also examine disparities in maternal outcomes, including higher rates of maternal mortality by Black and Asian women.

It will also include the unannounced inspections of all 18 of Scotland's acute maternity units currently being carried out by Healthcare Improvement Scotland.

The review will run for nine months with findings and recommendations due to be published in July 2027.

Health Secretary Angela Constance said: "I want every woman and baby to receive the high-quality care they deserve.

“That is why I announced this independent review, which will sit alongside the inspections already underway of every acute maternity unit in Scotland, to identify the systemic changes needed to strengthen services and improve outcomes.

"While the vast majority of mothers receive good care, I have heard from families who were let down, and from those who have bravely shared their experiences of loss – these are powerful stories. Their experiences must shape improvement.

"While the vital work of the review is underway, we will continue to take action to improve services, through implementation of the Miscarriage Framework and HIS Maternity Standards, the Scottish Patient Safety Perinatal Programme, improved bereavement care through the National Bereavement Care Pathway, and new work to improve triage services. HIS will also continue its programme of maternity inspections, driving improvement locally in every acute maternity unit in Scotland, and informing the review."

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.

“We want to hear from people with a wide range of experiences and perspectives. We encourage anyone with relevant insights to visit the website, learn more about the review and engage with the process as our work progresses."