North Devon District Hospital maternity unit closure extended

The Ladywell Unit at North Devon District Hospital will remain closed into November due to ongoing staff shortages. The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust confirmed that birthing services, which have been suspended since August, are still not in a position to reopen following a recent readiness assessment.

To address the shortage, the trust is attempting to recruit both temporary and substantive staff, including through international recruitment efforts. The trust has also formally requested support from the wider NHS.

During the suspension, patients are advised to follow personalized birth plans that involve delivering at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital or their next nearest facility. The trust stated it remains committed to reopening the services as soon as possible.