The temporary closure of Yeovil’s maternity unit has escalated into a significant political issue, with local MP Adam Dance appealing directly to the Prime Minister for urgent action and a definitive reopening timeline.
At Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday, May 14, Adam Dance, the Liberal Democrat MP for Yeovil, confronted Sir Keir Starmer over the closure of the maternity services at Yeovil District Hospital. The unit was shut down at 5pm on Monday following a Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection that highlighted critical staffing and governance issues in paediatric care. The closure currently lacks a confirmed reopening date, causing anxiety across the community.
During the Commons session, Adam stated: “Maternity services in Yeovil are due to shut on Monday after significant concerns raised in a flawed Care Quality Commission inspection back in January. These services are being relocated to Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton, which cannot accommodate an additional 1,300 births annually. While the closure is said to be temporary for six months, I have received no assurance that the unit will reopen, understandably creating widespread fear among families.”
READ MORE: Long-Awaited School Building to Replace Tents at Clevedon School
READ MORE: Man Arrested Following Series of Tool Thefts Across Somerset
In reply, Sir Keir acknowledged the seriousness of the situation: “I appreciate the hon. Member raising this matter, which clearly warrants attention. Although I am not fully briefed on the details, I will ensure he meets with the relevant Minister to investigate this issue thoroughly.”
The shutdown has disrupted access to local maternity care for families in Yeovil and nearby areas, compelling expectant mothers to seek services further away in Taunton, Bath, or Dorchester. This has sparked growing public concern and mounting pressure on health authorities.
To demand greater transparency and prompt action, Adam Dance has initiated a petition addressed to Somerset NHS Foundation Trust. It calls for a publicly available timeline for the unit’s reopening, resolution of staffing shortages, guarantees of safety, and open dialogue with the community.
“I am deeply troubled by the decision to close Yeovil Maternity Unit, even if temporary,” Adam said. “Residents deserve not vague assurances, but clear answers, decisive action, and dependable access to maternity care.”
The petition has garnered widespread support from local residents and community organizations and can be signed at www.yeovil-libdems.org.uk/maternity-unit-campaign.