Yeovil Hospital’s maternity unit in Somerset may reopen gradually rather than all at once, according to senior NHS officials. The Somerset NHS Foundation Trust had temporarily closed the hospital’s special care baby unit (SCBU) and inpatient maternity services on May 19 due to concerns over the safety, quality, and fragility of pediatric services on site.
In mid-October, the trust announced plans to reopen these facilities from April 21, 2026, following successful recruitment drives and improvements. However, top officials have yet to confirm if the entire unit will resume simultaneously or reopen in phases to prioritize staff and patient safety.
Sally Bryant, the trust’s director of midwifery, updated Somerset Council’s adults and health scrutiny committee on November 20 in Bridgwater. She said ongoing improvements were progressing well and that the maternity triage service continues to be carefully evaluated to meet necessary standards.
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Since the closure, 453 babies who would have been born at Yeovil have been delivered elsewhere: 215 at Dorset County Hospital, 178 at Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton, 31 at home, and 29 at other hospitals including the Royal United Hospital in Bath.
Several updates have taken place within the maternity unit in Yeovil, such as installing new fire doors, electrical upgrades, redecorating with refreshing décor, and adding art murals. Support has also been extended to vulnerable expectant parents and displaced families now accessing services at neighboring hospitals.
Councillor Lucy Trimnell (Conservative, Wincanton and Bruton) raised questions about whether the unit would reopen fully at once or in stages. She welcomed the positive progress but sought clarity on the reopening approach.
Ms. Bryant acknowledged the complexity, explaining that patient preferences may vary as some women who began care at alternate hospitals may choose to continue their births there. The trust is exploring all options and risks while working toward a full reopening, which remains the ultimate goal.
Councillor John Bailey (Liberal Democrat, Martock) voiced concerns for staff stability, urging clear timelines and assurances against further disruptions. Ms. Bryant reassured that staff turnover has remained stable, bolstering confidence in reopening plans.
Councillor Gill Slocombe (Conservative, Bridgwater West) praised the news and committed to advocating for a new maternity unit at Musgrove Park Hospital, supporting MP Gideon Amos’ efforts. She also humorously noted the pressures of parking at Musgrove, highlighting the need for improved facilities.
Overall, the phased reopening approach reflects a careful balancing act between ensuring patient safety, staff readiness, and meeting community needs as Yeovil Hospital’s maternity services prepare to welcome families once again.