Wednesday, 2nd February 2012
Commenting on the announcement of the closure of the Jubilee Birth Centre in Hull and the centralisation of maternity services at Hull Royal Infirmary, Jacque Gerrard, director for England at the Royal College of Midwives, said: “The RCM wanted to see this unit remain open, so this is disappointing news for the women who want to give birth in this kind of environment, and very sad news for the midwives who want to provide care there. This limits choices for women in the area at a time when the Government is saying there should be more choice.
“However, we are pleased to see that the option of birthing in a midwife led unit for women will still be available even though this means centralising services and the closure of Jubilee. Midwife led care offers women a different type of birth experience from a clinical hospital environment, and one that also brings additional benefits. The RCM would hope to see more of them opening in this region and across England.
“The RCM are keen to talk to the midwives and Trust managers about this decision and how this affects choices for women in the area, and about the next steps for maternity services in the East Riding.”
For more information contact the RCM Press Office on 020 7312 3456 or email: pressofficer@rcm.org.uk.
Notes to editors
The Royal College of Midwives is the voice of midwifery. We are the UK’s only trade union and professional organisation led by midwives for midwives. The vast majority of the midwifery profession are our members. The RCM promotes midwifery, quality maternity services and professional standards. We support and represent our members individually and collectively in all four UK countries. We influence on behalf of our members and for the interests of the women and families for which they care. For more information visit the RCM website at www.rcm.org.uk.
