Yeovil maternity services to reopen after safety improvements
Inpatient maternity services and Special Care Baby Unit set to reopen
Families in Yeovil can look forward to the reopening of inpatient maternity services and the Special Care Baby Unit at Yeovil District Hospital (YDH) on 21st April.
The decision to reopen follows significant improvements made by Somerset NHS Foundation Trust to address previous concerns about safety, quality, and the fragility of paediatric services at YDH.
Professor Deirdre Fowler, chief nurse and chief midwife at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, expressed excitement about welcoming families back, highlighting the hard work done to prepare for the reopening.
Temporary closures were in place from May 2025 following a Care Quality Commission inspection that revealed inadequate staffing and governance issues within paediatric services.
In response, the trust implemented numerous changes, including establishing a county-wide paediatric service, recruiting additional consultants, and enhancing training and governance processes.
Facility upgrades at YDH include new fire doors, improved security, and redecorated units, promising a safe and welcoming environment for families.
Sally Bryant, Director of Midwifery for Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, emphasised the importance of listening to community feedback and reassured families that they are welcome back to the hospital with support from her team.
The reopening is supported by the independent Somerset Maternity and Neonatal Voices Partnership, ensuring service users' input was central to planning.
Local MP Adam Dance has welcomed the reopening, emphasising its importance for providing accessible maternity care.
Somerset NHS Foundation Trust assures families of ongoing support and encourages those with questions or concerns to reach out to their community midwife or to take part in upcoming open days.
For more information, visit the trust’s website and read their updated frequently asked questions.