Home birth service hit by midwife shortage

SUSPENSION IN PLACE DUE TO SICKNESS AND ROTA ISSUES

- EMMA GILL

THE trust that runs hospitals in Manchester has suspended its home birth service as there aren't enough midwives to staff it safely.

The change, which bosses say will avoid birth plans being changed at short notice, is being made because they say the 'service being provided was not sustainable with, in particular, staff sickness absence and issues with rotas!

Previously Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust was able to offer home birth services for women who 'have a straightforward pregnancy and are in good health.'

But in a notice on its website, the trust which runs Saint Mary's, Wythenshawe and North Manchester hospitals - said: "MFT is currently reviewing and refreshing the home birth service model which will support a robust, high quality safe and equitable service for pregnant women and families across our city.