Talks begin on plans to cut maternity services

The measures - which have provoked a storm of protest - would see full maternity care at the Friarage Hospital, in Northallerton, downgraded to a midwife-led unit, meaning women due to have complicated births would have to travel to places including Darlington to have their babies.

Young patients may also have to travel to other hospitals for inpatient children’s services.

Earlier this year Health Secretary, Jeremy Hunt, rejected calls for a full review of the proposals. Opponents have raised fears women in labour from remote areas including the Dales could face long journeys to give birth. Those raising concerns have included Foreign Secretary and Richmond MP, William Hague.

Health chiefs fear doctors at the Friarage will not be able to retain and develop their clinical skills because there are not enough mums to be and children using the services.

Dr Vicky Pleydell, chief clinical officer for Hambleton, Richmondshire and Whitby Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “There are some important decisions that need to be made about the future of children’s and maternity services at the Friarage to make sure they are safe.”

Public talks got underway yesterday and will end on Monday, November 25. People can find out more about the proposals at www.hambletonrichmondshireandwhitbyccg.nhs.uk or can send their comments to the CCG via email to: [email protected]

A series of public meetings will also be held with the first taking place at Thirsk Racecourse, Station Road, Thirsk, 7pm-8.30pm on September 18.