An MVP is a partnership that works to review and contribute to the development of maternity services within a local area. It brings together the staff who pay for (commission) and provide maternity services with the women, birthing people and families who use those services. The MVP is coordinated by a service user chair or leadership team, who are independent lay people. All members of the partnership take responsibility for the development and delivery of an agreed workplan.

The membership includes:

• midwives, health visitors, doctors and managers

• women, birthing people and families from a diverse range of backgrounds

• members of the wider community such as birth workers and charities specialising in mental health, supporting refugees, etc.

The members work together as equals, recognising that each person brings a different set of experiences, skills and resources that will contribute to the strength of the partnership as a whole. It is intended that everyone who uses or works in NHS maternity services in England can choose to get involved in a local Maternity Voices Partnership.