BOSSES at The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (SaTH) have centralised their maternity services in Telford as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.

The move was announced on Saturday by Nicola Wenlock, director of midwifery at SaTH, who said the decision was taken because of the impact of the virus on staffing levels.

She says the Trust has been, and will continue to be, in touch with expectant mums to advise them on their next move.

“In light of COVID-19 impact on our staffing levels and so we can provide the safest care and experience for our expectant mums, we are taking a number of temporary measures and are centralising our teams," she said.

"All women due to give birth will now be cared for at our consultant-led unit at the Princess Royal Hospital in Telford.

"The current Wrekin midwife-led unit is closed and home births are suspended. Antenatal services will continue to operate at the Royal Shrewsbury site.

"We are contacting expectant mums due to give birth over the coming weeks and will be providing advice and next steps.

"I would like to apologise to those who are disappointed by this move; however in this rapidly-changing situation we are constantly reviewing how we can continue to give a safe and responsive service and best look after those under our care."

Expectant mums are advised to contact and follow the advice of the midwife in triage, 01952 565948, or speak to their own midwife with any concerns.

For up-to-date information on visiting restrictions at the SaTH’s Women and Children’s Centre, please visit www.sath.nhs.uk/patients-visitors/coronavirus