The proposed partial closure of Stroud Maternity Unit is alarming for many parents and soon-to-be parents in our community. Personal testimonies from midwives within the service have revealed plans to reduce the unit’s hours, restricting it to daytime operations with services such as clinics and triage. As a result, vital support for births overnight will be eliminated.

This decision will not only impact the immediate Stroud community but also pressure the already stretched midwifery team, who could be left to manage huge caseloads across the entirety of Gloucestershire.

Stroud Maternity Unit has served as a beacon of hope and care for expecting families in the area. With the proposed restrictions, the unit will no longer be able to provide the comprehensive, 24-hour care it has traditionally offered. For families who rely on the familiarity and security of local health services, this change represents a significant regression.

Furthermore, the increased demand on midwifery teams to cover a broader area during home births means potentially longer waiting times for laboring mothers, increased risk of complications, and a general decrease in the quality of care available.

The benefits of maintaining this unit's current operating hours are clear. It provides equitable, immediate access to support during one of life’s most crucial times for Stroud District. Furthermore, keeping the unit fully operational ensures that high-quality, professional care remains available within the community, preserving peace of mind and safety for all families.

In light of these considerations, we urge local health authorities to prioritise the health and welfare of mothers and their newborns across Gloucestershire by refraining from implementing reduced hours at Stroud Maternity Unit. We must ensure that this indispensable community facility continues to operate, providing comprehensive care for all, day and night.

Join us in preserving the vital service that Stroud Maternity Unit provides. Stand with us in urging local decision-makers to reconsider these proposed changes and protect our community’s access to essential maternity care. Please sign and share this petition.