During the Ambulance Service industrial action (beginning 00:00 Wednesday 21 December), the ambulance service has advised that confirmed obstetric emergencies will continue to be responded to, but there are likely to be delays in response time.
Following this, NHS Trusts are required to suspend home birth services, recognising the potential increase in risk due to the likelihood of significant delays to ambulances responding to emergency situations.
During this difficult time, to mitigate against any potential risks associated with the ambulance strikes, we are asking that women booked for a homebirth come into the maternity unit. However, if you are planning a homebirth and feel that you are in labour, do not hesitate to contact the Maternity Triage Unit to discuss appropriate plans and support.