Following extensive public and staff engagement, proposals to change how maternity and neonatal services will be delivered across north central London (NCL) will be considered by the NCL Integrated Care Board (ICB) and NHS England (Specialised Commissioning).

They will meet on Tuesday 25 March to discuss the recommended next steps and make a final decision about maternity and neonatal services. 

The following recommendations will be considered:

  • To close maternity and neonatal services at the Royal Free Hospital.

Maternity and neonatal services will be consolidated onto four hospital sites: Barnet Hospital, North Middlesex University Hospital, University College London Hospitals, and Whittington Health.

These hospitals will all provide at least level two neonatal care.

  • To close the birthing suites at Edgware Birth Centre and expand antenatal and postnatal care at Edgware Community Hospital.

The recommendations will be published on the NCL ICB website when a decision-making business case is published later today.

The case will outline evidence and data to support the ICB and NHS England to make a final decision.

What does this mean for women and pregnant people who are booked to give birth at the Royal Free Hospital or Edgware Birth Centre?

All our services are open as usual and there will be no changes to your care. Please continue to attend all your appointments at the Royal Free Hospital and Edgware Birth Centre as usual.

What does this mean for women and pregnant people who are considering the Royal Free Hospital or Edgware Birth Centre as a place to give birth?

All our services are open as usual, and we continue to accept new bookings at both the Royal Free Hospital and Edgware Birth Centre.

Read more about the NCL Start Well programme on NCL ICB's website.