Safety concerns put up to 20 UK maternity units at risk of closure

Ekonominin Sesi - International (English) · Oct 19, 2026 · 1m

The NHS Alliance has warned that as many as 20 maternity units in Britain could shut down over safety issues. These are part of 155 smaller, consultant-led units across the country. Many are located in rural or coastal areas where few other options exist. In Devon, some expectant mothers would have to travel 53 miles for care if their local unit closes. Rising caesarean rates are adding to staffing challenges. Last year in England, 45 percent of births were by C-section—surpassing vaginal deliveries for the first time. Meanwhile, 44 percent were vaginal and 11 percent involved ventouse or…