Mothers-to-be in north Cumbria are now once again able to give birth at home if they want to, following a temporary pause as a result of the disruption causes by coronavirus.

Home births had for a time been suspended by the North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust as a result of the Covid-19 outbreak, but now the trust has announced it is once again able to support expectant mothers to have their baby at home, should they want to do so.

In the past month alone, north Cumbria’s midwives have welcomed 224 babies into the world.

Amanda Kennett, head of midwifery at the north Cumbria trust, said: “We are really pleased to be able to offer a choice of birthing options for our women again.

"We know it has been difficult for those who have to change their plans but we have tried to make sure all births have been a positive experience in what are very unusual times."

She added that there were still some restrictions in place to maintain everyone's safety in light of the continued risk from Covid-19.

“In line with national guidance we still have visiting restrictions in place however expectant mums can still have their birthing partner with them to provide support during labour.

"The birthing partner is able to stay following the birth if mum is anticipated to be discharged home. It is only if mum and baby are admitted onto the post-natal ward following labour where no visitors are permitted.”

Amanda encouraged any expectant mums to contact the trust if they had any concerns whatsoever about the birthing process.

“Having a baby is such a special time and we would never want anyone to feel worried, " she said.

"We are still here to help and would urge mums to contact us if they have any questions at all, that’s what we are here for.

"We would also like to remind parents to make sure their babies and children still get their vaccinations and attend vaccination appointments. Vaccines are an absolutely essential building block of good health and provide essential protection against potentially life-threatening diseases.”

Work is also underway to enhance the trust's birthing centre in Penrith.

The trust will advise women when normal service has been resumed following refurbishments.