NHS bosses have made the decision to temporarily suspend birth services at Helme Chase Maternity Unit at Westmorland General Hospital this weekend.

This is to carry out essential maintenance work to the nearby Theatres department.

The suspension will take place from 5pm on Friday 6 October 2023 until 5pm on Sunday 9 October 2023.

Community midwife appointments and the home birth service are unaffected.

Tamsin Cripps, head of midwifery, at Morecambe Bay Trust, said: “We have made the decision to temporarily suspend birth services at Helme Chase in order to keep babies, families and our colleagues safe during some essential maintenance work that will be taking place over the weekend in Theatres. 

“We understand how important it is for women to have the choice to give birth where they would like to, and we really appreciate their patience and understanding during this period whilst this essential work is carried out. 

“Mums-to-be who had planned to give birth at Helme Chase are advised to contact their community midwife who will support them with any worries they may have and talk through the alternative birthing options available.”