Temporary suspension of birth services at North Devon District Hospital (NDDH).

Births at North Devon District Hospital (NDDH) are temporarily suspended as of Tuesday 11 August 2026 due to unsafe levels of medical staffing.

The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust’s decision comes despite extensive efforts to maintain services.

The temporary suspension affects births and face to face triage only.

Other services including community midwifery, scans, birth planning, ultrasound clinics and antenatal outpatient clinics will remain in Northern Devon.

The Trust has contacted over 300 women and birthing people who are 34 weeks pregnant or more, as well as those identified as vulnerable or clinically high risk, to discuss their individual circumstances, care plans and the travel and transport support available.

A dedicated helpline for pregnant women and birthing people is available – 01271 335 773, (9am-5pm, Monday – Friday).

A maternity triage line is also available 24/7 for those who require urgent medical advice – 01392 406 616. 

Alongside managing the temporary suspension, the Trust has already begun work to restore births at North Devon District Hospital as quickly and safely as possible.

For more information and support, visit the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust’s website.