THE University Hospital of Hartlepool is now able to take bookings for births in the brand new Rowan Suite.

Based on the ground floor, within the Maternity Hub, the Rowan Suite is the newly furbished birthing centre, which sees a team of highly qualified midwives offering a 'Continuity of Carer' pathway.

Continuity of Carer ensures the same midwife will be assigned to care for the woman throughout the whole of her pregnancy journey, including her birth, leading to many benefits to the woman and her family such as a reduced need for pain relief and greater satisfaction.

The Rowan Suite features specially designed rooms with a ‘home away from home’ atmosphere to assist women to stay upright and active during their birth, as well as a birth pool suite.

Julie Lane, Chief Nurse and Director of Patient Safety and Quality, said: “To say we’re thrilled is an understatement! We’ve been working towards this for a long time. The centre has been completely re-fitted and the team is ready to go. The rooms are furnished to a very high standard and are very comfortable."