Beds decrease sparks fear of maternity service crisis

THE number of maternity beds is falling, despite a rising birth rate, putting the service at breaking point, it has been claimed.

Alun Cairns, Conservative AM for South Wales West, has revealed there were 35,649 births in Wales during 2008 — the highest figure since 1972.

But the number of maternity beds has dropped to 526 from 564 five years ago. At Singleton Hospital, there were 57 beds during 2007/08, compared to 62 during 2004.

Meanwhile, at Neath Port Talbot Hospital there are now seven maternity beds compared to 16 in 2004. The hospital is home to a midwife-led unit.

An Assembly Government spokeswoman said: "The birth rate has increased by six per cent this year and we are working with the Royal College of Midwives and trusts to ease the pressure on maternity wards and services."