Care provision for pregnant migrant women

That this House welcomes the publication by the Royal College of Midwives of its position statement and accompanying pocket guide for midwives and maternity support workers on caring for pregnant migrant women; notes these women are at higher risk of experiencing poor outcomes for themselves and their babies, and that midwives and maternity support workers have a duty of care to all women, regardless of their immigration status; believes that a woman’s immigration status should not be the deciding factor as to whether she can access maternity care; further believes that workforce and service planning should take into account the particular needs of pregnant migrant women for compassionate support, effective communication and continuity of care, which are essential to reduce inequality of outcomes; calls for such women not to be relocated by the immigration authorities after 20 weeks of pregnancy and for women to be settled into suitable accommodation as early as possible in pregnancy to minimise disruption during this critical time; is concerned that charges for maternity care deter some women from seeking maternity care; and calls on the Government to revoke all maternity-related NHS charges without delay.