Blog

Notification of potential and temporary suspension of births at North Devon District Hospital

 

Following a review of medical staffing levels and professional advice from clinical leaders, the Royal Devon University Hospital Foundation Trust Board has been advised that beyond Tuesday 11 August 2026 there will be insufficient substantive consultant and medical cover to safely maintain births at North Devon District Hospital. 

 

This means we cannot guarantee that women would consistently have access to the level of senior medical support during labour they may require. 

 

For this reason, the Royal Devon has taken the difficult decision to begin planning for the temporary suspension of births at North Devon District Hospital from Tuesday 11 August 2026. 

 

Between now and then, the Trust will continue to explore every available opportunity to avoid suspending the service, working closely with neighbouring providers, NHS Devon Integrated Care Board and NHS England South West.

 

Watch a statement from Sam Higginson, Chief Executive Officer, by clicking on the video located on this page: https://www.royaldevon.nhs.uk/maternity-and-obstetrics/nddh-birth-services-temporary-changes/.

 

Advice for pregnant women and birthing people and their families

We are currently contacting every person who is 34 weeks pregnant or more, and they will have the opportunity to discuss their birth plan with their midwife, and ensure they are fully supported. People can also talk to their community midwife about their options. Once we have had these conversations, we will start contacting people who are earlier on in their pregnancy.

 

We are mindful that many of our families live far away from North Devon District Hospital, and we will discuss with you how we can best support you - this will either be on the phone when we call you or at your next routine midwife appointment.

 

Helpline

We have set up a dedicated support helpline - 01271 335773. This is open Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm. Outside of these hours you can leave contact details for a call back.

 

Concerns

Any women, birthing person or family member who needs urgent medical advice should call our maternity triage line as usual - at any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 01392 406616.

 

Feedback

People can also share feedback with Devon Maternity and Neonatal Voices Partnership (MNVP) by emailing info@devonmaternityvoices.org.uk