https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/nhs-bosses-say-smaller-maternity-units-may-have-to-closeContinuously updated, source-cited coverage. https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/nhs-bosses-say-smaller-maternity-units-may-have-to-closehttps://www.live-feeds.com/feed/nhs-bosses-say-smaller-maternity-units-may-have-to-close#u147501Thu, 22 Oct 2026 19:07:53 +0000The NHS Alliance warns that up to 20 of England's 155 consultant-led maternity units may close due to patient safety concerns. Closures would target smaller hospitals, specifically those delivering fewer than 2,000 babies per year. The organization states that difficult decisions are necessary and some services must be consolidated to maintain safety standards. This potential reduction in rural and small-scale maternity care has sparked concerns among families and prompts calls for members of Parliament to address the changes.Why it mattersThe proposal targets units delivering between 1,5