Ludlow maternity unit closing for weekend over 'unexpected staffing issues'

The unit will close at 8pm tonight and will remain shut until 8am on Monday.

Women booked to give birth at Ludlow MLU who go into labour during the temporary suspension of services will be offered a birth at another MLU.

The suspension of services is due to unexpected staff shortages and increased activity.

Community antenatal and postnatal appointments will continue as planned at Ludlow MLU tomorrow and Sunday during daytime hours.

Ludlow MLU is expected to be open as normal from 8am on Monday.

Sarah Jamieson, head of midwifery at The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (SaTH), said: “Unfortunately due to unexpected staff shortages and increased activity within our maternity service we will be temporarily suspending services at Ludlow MLU from 8pm on Friday until 8am on Monday.

“We are contacting women who have chosen to deliver at Ludlow and who are due to give birth in the near future to inform them and offer an alternative location to give birth if they go into labour whilst services are suspended at Ludlow MLU.

“Community antenatal and postnatal appointments in Ludlow will still take place as planned during the day tomorrow and Sunday and women are being contacted about the arrangements for these.

“I would like to apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.”