# Up to 20 NHS Maternity Units Could Close

> NHS warns 20 maternity units may close due to staff shortages and rising caesarean rates.
- Title: Up to 20 NHS Maternity Units Could Close · MadeForMums
- Summary: NHS warns 20 maternity units may close due to staff shortages and rising caesarean rates. Up to 20 NHS maternity units in England could close or change…
- Keywords: nhs, maternity units, england, staff shortages, caesarean rates, rural communities, maternity care, Maternity, Units, Close, MadeForMums
- Source: MadeForMums — https://madeformums.com/news/pregnancy-news/up-to-20-nhs-maternity-units-could-close-what-does-this-mean-for-mums-to-be
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: nhs, maternity units, england, staff shortages, caesarean rates, rural communities, maternity care
## NHS Maternity Units at Risk
Up to 20 NHS maternity units across England could close or change services due to staff shortages and rising caesarean rates.
## Staffing Shortages Impact Care
Smaller units delivering 1,500 to 2,000 babies annually face sustainability challenges with current staffing levels.
## Rural Communities at Risk
Women in rural and coastal areas may travel further for births as local services close.
## Rising Caesarean Rates
Caesarean sections rose from 33% of births in 2020 to 45% in 2025, increasing pressure on services.
## Midwives and Doctors Oppose Closures
Royal College of Midwives and Obstetricians argue for alternative solutions to workforce shortages.
## North Devon Hospital Closure
North Devon District Hospital temporarily closed its maternity unit in August due to staff shortages.
## Government Review Expected
Government's maternity taskforce must publish a report on improving childbirth care before Christmas.
## Impact on Expectant Parents
Women may travel up to 70 minutes by car to access maternity services if local units close.
## Key takeaway

Up to 20 NHS maternity units in England could close or change services amid staff shortages and rising caesarean rates.