Nurse Jenny Lee arrives at Nonnatus House in London's East End to begin her work as a midwife. Naive and unused to the harsh conditions of the borough, she must rise above her misgivings if she is to succeed in her new role.

Jenny befriends an old soldier named Joe, and is disturbed by his living conditions. She is also visited by a man from her past, while Trixie and Cynthia have a sensitive case to deal with, and Chummy is asked on a date.