East Cheshire NHS Trust has confirmed that due to ongoing issues around staffing, it must regrettably continue the suspension of its homebirths service.
John Wilbraham, Trust Chief Executive said: “We strive to support women’s choices about where they give birth, including at home, however safety is our paramount consideration.
“It’s important to recognise that we are planning in very uncertain times and we are currently faced with increased staffing pressures and a second wave of Covid-19. Reinstating homebirths remains under review with partners as staffing solutions are sought."
All women who had expressed an interest in the homebirth service will be contacted by the Head of Midwifery and their local midwives to arrange their birth plans.
At present, partners from the same household or bubble can join women for their Early Pregnancy AU ( EPAU), 12 and 20 week scans at Macclesfield Hospital.
The trust will look to reinstate this service as soon as it is safe to do so.
ENDS
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