Places to give birth at this Trust

Rushey is a labour assessment unit and birth centre run by a team of dedicated midwives which is located within the maternity unit onsite. It is located on level 6 of the maternity block.

When you think you are in labour, you are welcome to speak with the triage midwife on 0118 322 7304 and she will be able to help you.  If you are ready to come into hospital, the triage midwife will advise you on where to go for your labour check up. 

The birth centre has four rooms which have been designed for your comfort and relaxation in labour.  All these rooms are themed as one of the four seasons.   

A first time mother who had her baby in a similar type of unit wrote: “I would highly recommend a midwife led unit to any woman, especially in their first pregnancy. I found the set up very calm and relaxing."

For women who are healthy and do not anticipate any complications, current research suggests that it is safer to give birth in a midwife led birth centre like Rushey than in a main labour ward as it reduces the chances of needing a Caesarean or assisted birth .

Women staying on our unit are invited to be accompanied by 2 birthing partners 24 hours a day (outside of Covid restrictions). When you have had your baby, you can choose to go straight home from Rushey birth centre, any time from 4 hours after having your baby, if you and your baby are well.

If you are staying longer with us, you and your baby will be transferred to the postnatal ward on level 4 for your stay.

For women with more complex pregnancies who require additional monitoring in labour or requiring additional care immediately after birth.

Women receiving care on Delivery Suite are invited to be accompanied by 2 birthing partners 24 hours a day (outside of Covid restrictions). When you have had your baby, you may choose to go straight home depending on the needs of yourself and your baby.

If you are staying longer with us, you and your baby will be transferred to the postnatal ward on Level 4 for your stay.

Pain relief:  A full anaesthetic service is available, including a 24/7 epidural service, gas & air (Etonox), injections for pain relief and non-drug based pain relief including waterbirth and aromatherapy.

We have a dedicated homebirth team. The option of home birth will be discussed at the time of your first booking appointment if you are expected to have a straightforward pregnancy and birth. If you are planning to have your baby at home you can self-refer to the team by emailing rbft.homebirthteam@nhs.net or ask your community midwife to make a referral.

Once we have received your details we endeavour to make contact within 7 working days. After this time, we will allocate you a named midwife, and we will make arrangements to see you at home for your antenatal care. A detailed discussion will take place from 34-36 weeks regarding having your baby at home