I didn’t have one with my first. And labour was that long that I saw 8 different midwives
I think it's quite common now, especially the further south you go and in the more built up areas!
I had a different midwife for most of my appointments in 2022. Especially after the baby arrived it was a different person coming round each time. This time I have seen the same one twice so far but I think that’s just luck as it’s actually a different one to my official midwife (who I haven’t seen at all this time round).
Same for me, they take turns, but I think I prefer that because if I had to be closed to only one midwife and expect her to be there for the labour and birth but she wouldn't be available, I would feel bad. So I'm ok with having the first one available. If it's a real issue for you, maybe try a doula, at least she will be available for you. I considered it too as I want a natural birth again but I'm already 21w so I'm not sure if it's too late and want to save money for maternity leave
I didn't have an assigned midwife with my first and also don't have this time. It would be nice tough 🥲