Bedford Hospital’s Homebirth Service review has been extended
Following our announcement in October 2024 that Bedford Hospital’s Blossom Homebirth service is currently under review due to significant staffing challenges, the Trust needs to extend this review period until the end of March 2025 (extended from end of December 2024).
Once the Blossom Homebirth service review began, focus groups were held by the maternity leadership team and the Bedford Maternity and Neonatal Voices Partnership (MNVP) to gather feedback from community midwives and service users to gage insight into their worries and what they would like to see following the review.
The decision to extend the review has not been taken lightly and reflects our commitment to ensuring the highest standards of safety, quality, and equity in maternity care. This additional time is necessary to thoroughly evaluate the service, including its staffing levels, sustainability, and capacity to meet the needs of our community.
We recognise the impact this extended review may have on those who were planning or considering a home birth, and we take this opportunity to reiterate that whilst the review takes place, care will not be compromised. Pregnant women / birthing people currently under the care of the Homebirth team will be supported by community midwives that are experienced in providing labour care within a home environment.
We value the contributions of all our stakeholders and will continue to provide updates as the review concludes. Your patience and understanding during this time are greatly appreciated as we work to ensure the long-term safety and viability of the Homebirth service.