MPs' hospital call as report reveals concerns over lack of qualified staff

SOMERSET MPs have urged the government not to overlook Yeovil Hospital's plight in its new review of NHS maternity services.

- DANIEL MUMBY Local democracy journalist [e-mail]

The Somerset NHS Foundation Trust announced on May 12 that it would be closing Yeovil's birthing and special care baby units (SCBU) for a minimum of six months, following an official warning notice from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) about the standard of care being provided.

The Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC) announced on June 23 that it would be launching a "rapid national investigation into NHS maternity and neonatal services", following concerns raised at several hospital trusts.

Two of Somerset's MPs have urged the government to ensure Yeovil Hospital is included front and centre in this review, which is expected to report by Christmas - shortly after the NHS Somerset integrated care board (ICB) will have reviewed its closure.

The initial review reportedly will focus on up to ten of the most at risk maternity units with Yeovil MP Adam Dance expressing concerns that his constituency would not be included, leaving expectant mothers in limbo.

Speaking in a recent House of Commons debate, Mr Dance warned that the sudden closure of Yeovil's maternity services had "left a dangerous gap in care" and could lead to avoidable harm without urgent intervention.

He elaborated: “This is not just about one hospital. This is about the future of safe, accessible maternity care across Somerset. We need urgent answers, immediate investment, and a firm commitment that no more families will be left behind.”

Mr Dance has been joined in this crusade by fellow Liberal Democrat MP Sarah Dyke, whose Glastonbury and Somerton constituency relies closely on Yeovil Hospital for a range of medical services.