Bedford hospital's Homebirth team has been a beacon of hope and reassurance to many families. This hospital boasts a homebirth rate that surpasses the national average, which has been largely attributed to the remarkable and tireless efforts of its dedicated midwives. 

The personal stories and positive experiences of hundreds of families bear testament to the important work being done by this dedicated team. They provide continuity of care and you get to know the Midwives looking after you & who will be present at your homebirth. 

Unfortunately, changes are looming over this vital service. There have been talks about shifting homebirth responsibilities back to community midwives. This proposed change does not only pose a significant risk to the safety of expecting mothers and newborns. It impacts women's right to choose the manner in which they wish to bring their children into the world, ultimately discouraging homebirths.

The result of this change is predicted to be a sharp decline in the homebirth rate in Bedford as women will not know which midwife will be attending on the day, or be able to build upon any kind of trusting relationship with the midwife like they do now. The ripple effect will inevitably disrupt the amazing continuity of care that these families are currently receiving which leads to better outcomes as relationships are built. We cannot let that happen. We must uphold and respect women's birth choices, maintain the excellent record of safety and ensure that homebirth remains a viable and supported option in Bedford with the passionate homebirth team Midwives, and for Bedford hospital to recruit more Midwives to replace the ones they have lost rather than using community Midwives who haven't chosen to be part of homebirths. 

There are conversations taking place regarding significant changes to maternity services, that could potentially affect or limit birthing choices and birthing safety, being discussed and implemented without including service user input. This is of great concern to the community and those these decisions may impinge on. At best, decisions such as these should be co-produced and at a bare minimum there should be some form of consultation with those it will most effect. 

Listening to families was one of four essential actions recommended in the Ockenden report (Dec 2020) and co-production is an essential part of the NHS England maternity transformation programme. 

Therefore, we are urging the decision-makers at Bedford hospital to reconsider and halt any plans that may impact the current service being run by their dedicated team. Instead, we suggest allocating more resources towards the homebirth team, including employing more staff, to continue the success of this team.

Please sign this petition and join us in supporting Bedford hospital's homebirth team, defending women's birth choices and ensuring the continuation of this outstanding service in the way it has been run for the last 5 years.