Call the Midwife (2012 – ...)

Step back to the vibrant, challenging world of 1950s London with season one. Through the fresh perspective of newly qualified nurse Jenny Lee, we’re welcomed into the heart of Poplar – a district struggling against poverty and hardship in the East End. As she begins her work as a midwife alongside the compassionate Nuns of the Order of St. Raymond, Jenny witnesses firsthand the joys and sorrows woven into the fabric of this close-knit community, offering both hope and heartache within its walls.

In the upcoming season, viewers return to the close-knit community where young nurse Jenny Lee carries on her vital work as a midwife, partnering with the compassionate Nuns of the Order of St. Raymond in Nonnatus House.

Returning to the familiar streets of the East End, this season finds Chummy, PC Noakes, and little Freddy settling back into life together. But for Jenny, things aren't so straightforward. She’s navigating a period of significant change, grappling with considerable hurdles as she strives to balance her personal journey with the demands of her career.

As the 1960s loom on the horizon, Poplar’s residents brace themselves for a new era. The decade promises change, but personal lives are in flux too. Nurse Trixie finds herself navigating a surprising romance when charming curate Tom Hereward asks for her hand. Meanwhile, the possibility of a life devoted to God weighs heavily on Nurse Cynthia, prompting astonishment from both Trixie and Patsy. And in an unforeseen turn of events, Chummy steps up to manage a mother and baby home, offering support and sanctuary to young women facing difficult circumstances.

The festive spirit of season five is shattered when Sister Monica Joan vanishes just before Christmas, sending worry rippling through the convent and hospital. Amidst the chaos, Shelagh rallies to create a heartwarming children’s choir, hoping to deliver a special BBC broadcast from the church. Meanwhile, Trixie continues her journey of healing, discovering renewed strength and connection in leading keep fit classes. And as Barbara and vicar Tom Hereward navigate their lives, could an unexpected friendship evolve into something deeper?

The year is 1962, and the dedicated team at Nonnatus House remains steadfast in its commitment to the community of Poplar. Yet, a palpable shift is stirring – the broader social changes sweeping the nation ripple directly into their lives and work. As they navigate the complexities of childbirth, disability, illness, and deeply ingrained prejudice alongside expectant mothers and families, the midwives and medics themselves face difficult decisions and personal struggles. Series six promises moments of joy and heartbreak, forging an even deeper bond as they lean on one another through shared challenges and unwavering support.

Series seven sees Nonnatus House facing unprecedented trials, both within its walls and in the rapidly changing East End. As Victorian terraces give way to modern high-rise housing, the community’s needs – and the challenges faced by the nuns and nurses – grow ever more complex. From battling devastating illnesses like leprosy and stroke to supporting vulnerable women, their dedication is constantly tested. Trixie's burgeoning romance with Christopher deepens, while Tom and Barbara settle into the joys of married life. But tensions rise as Nurse Crane encounters an unexpected challenge to her leadership, and Sister Monica Joan grapples with the realities of a mind slowly fading. And for the Turner family, life takes a surprising turn when Shelagh decides to bring an au pair into their home.

The year is 1964, and a quiet revolution is underway. As new possibilities emerge – from early conversations about birth control to the looming prospect of legal abortion – advancements like cancer screening offer a glimmer of hope. At Nonnatus House, the dedicated nurses and nuns navigate an increasingly complex world, confronting heartbreaking cases involving interracial adoption, children born with cleft palates, the devastating realities of sickle cell disease, and the sudden tragedy of cot death. Amidst these demanding challenges, one member of the team might just find a spark of romance blossoming.

A new chapter dawns at Nonnatus House, ushering in a period of exciting changes for its dedicated team of midwives and medics. As the community evolves and long-held practices are questioned, they’ll navigate unforeseen hurdles – from shifting demographics to resurfacing health concerns. Alongside their demanding work, personal lives intertwine with familiar threads of love, loss, and moments of profound uncertainty. But a shadow hangs over Nonnatus House itself; its very existence may soon be called into question.

The year is 1966, and a wave of challenges washes over Nonnatus House – but amidst the difficulties, a sense of hopeful change begins to stir. As the burgeoning women’s rights movement gains momentum, Sister Julienne finds herself grappling with the urgent need to secure the future of the beloved midwifery practice. With Trixie's support, she embarks on a determined quest to navigate Nonnatus House through its financial uncertainties and towards a brighter tomorrow.

The festive cheer of Christmas fades as the midwives head back to their demanding work in East London, springtime 1967 arriving with a flurry of Easter celebrations. Outside Nonnatus House, a vibrant parade showcasing elaborate Easter bonnets promises a joyful start to the season. Inside, anticipation is high – Sister Monica Joan and Reggie are eagerly awaiting the Eurovision Song Contest, while newly qualified midwife Nancy prepares for a significant milestone: donning her signature red cardigan for the very first time.

The year is 1968, and a palpable unease settles over Poplar following Enoch Powell’s divisive “Rivers of Blood” speech, amplified by a march of local dockers voicing their support. At Nonnatus House, the arrival of Sister Veronica brings an immediate warmth – everyone adores her, that is, except for Nurse Crane. Trixie and Matthew's romance blossoms beautifully, while Nurse Crane offers practical assistance to Nancy as she navigates some difficult financial circumstances. Sister Julienne finds renewed purpose assisting on the district nursing rounds, juggling the demands of the maternity home with Shelagh and Dr Turner’s growing family. And for Violet and Fred, Reggie remains a constant source of laughter and light.

The year is 1969, a time when hospitals are bustling with new life – more babies are being born within their walls than ever before. Across Britain, maternity wards are stretched thin, but in Poplar, things feel slightly less fraught. Thanks to the dedicated work of Nonnatus House and the growing acceptance of home births overseen by the Sisters, the community is navigating this surge in births with a measure of resilience.

A heartwarming tale of life in London's impoverished East End of the 50s, 60s and 70s.