Number of expectant mothers in Wakefield rises by 50 per cent

The number of expected births in the Wakefield district is set to increase by 50 per cent this month.
The number of expected births has increased by 50 per cent this month.The number of expected births has increased by 50 per cent this month.
The number of expected births has increased by 50 per cent this month.

The figure was confirmed at a Wakefield Council Children, Young People and Skills Overview and Scrutiny Committee this week.

Coun David Jones said he understood from his time working with food banks that many parents may also require donations of nappies.

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He said: "We know that there had a been a high demand for nappies and other equipment.

"Will there have to be other resources put it to cope with this increase in the birth rate?

He added: "Given the amount of pressure that Pinderfields Hospital has been under and the knowledge that Pontefract's birthing unit had been closed what is the capacity situation given all the pressures that our hospitals are under?

Council officer Melanie Robinson said help would be given to support mothers and mesaures had been put in place to deal with capacity at district's birthing units.

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She said: "The midwifery service has taken action with regard to staffing and are prepared for the increase in expected births

"We are supporting through the Children and Young Peoples Service a project to provide guidance and activity packs to children under the age of three.

"Within that we will people signposting opportunities for parents who may require additional support and help."