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Rise in NHS birth centre closures ‘shocking’ denial of women’s rights, experts say
Twelve midwife-led birth centres have closed in England since 2019, with six shutting permanently since Labour came to power in 2024. Campaigners say the closures, alongside suspensions of NHS home birth services, are restricting women’s choice of where and how to give birth.
The closures are linked to midwife shortages, a falling birthrate, more complex births and rising caesarean rates; trusts often cite staffing levels and safety. Four centres have been labelled temporarily closed for years, while two are out of action because their hospital buildings need replacement. Campaigners warn that longer journeys and fewer NHS options may push some women towards private care or unsupported home births.
In short
- Twelve birth centres have closed in England since 2019.
- Six permanent closures came after Labour took office in 2024.
- Campaigners say reduced services limit women’s birth choices.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Women should have meaningful access to different safe birth settings, including midwife-led centres and home birth where clinically appropriate. Campaigners argue that closures and service suspensions can leave families with longer journeys and fewer NHS options, making choice depend on where they live or what they can afford; sustained temporary closures may also amount to a loss of provision in practice.
The case against
NHS trusts must match birth services to available staff, facilities and the needs of the people giving birth, while managing safety risks and finite resources. Where midwife shortages, more complex births, rising caesarean rates or buildings needing replacement limit what can be safely provided, pausing or closing a centre may be a responsible operational decision, even if it reduces choice.