I've had three children - the first two were both NHS and induced (past due dates) and all fine, but the third at home with an independent midwife. With the third I stayed with the NHS up until 31 weeks and then I realised via a NCT home birth group that it was porbable that once I went into labour the midwifes couldn't guarentee they would come out to me. Slightly defeated the object of getting everything ready for a home birth. So I opted out! It is to this day the best £3k ever spent (he's now five so old price).
I interviewed a few independent midwives - suggested to me by the NCT homebirth group - and went with the most fantastic lady. She visited me every week, everything was done at home to my convenience (fitting around work), she gave me loads of relevant insightful advice and reading to follow, relaxation techniqes - the lot.
During my labour (pool in kitchen) she was fantastic - he was back to back and she had me doing loads of exercises to shift him. It worked. The birth was went really well, very controlled and really showed her experience. No tearing despite a 9lb 11oz baby.
Aftercare - well wonderful. She came every day for as long as I needed her for at least 10 days. And then once a week for the next 6 weeks. She helped me with feeding, sticky eye, getting my husband to do more stuff
and was just heaven to have around.
I can't recommend the experience with an independent midwife highly enough. And my notes are unbelievable - the detail she went into! So hopefully you'll find someone who suits you as that's important - sadly mine retired and moved away from the area.