We know the continued suspension of birthing services at North Devon District Hospital is causing worry and uncertainty for women, birthing people and families across North Devon.

We are sorry that the service has not yet been able to reopen. Today's update explains the current position, the work under way to reopen safely and the support available while the temporary arrangements remain in place

Latest news at a glance:

• Birthing services at North Devon District Hospital remain temporarily suspended.

• We remain committed to reopening the service as soon as it is safe to do so.

• We will review our readiness to reopen every two weeks. The next formal review is on Monday 28 September.

• We will not lower the staffing requirements needed for a safe and sustainable service.

• To support patient safety and provide clarity for women and families, we will only announce a reopening date once all safety criteria have been met and a formal decision has been made. We are not sharing potential dates or encouraging speculation about reopening.

• Since 11 August and up to 21 September, 127 women and birthing people from North Devon have given birth at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital.

• There have been no clinical safety incidents directly related to the temporary suspension.

• Community midwifery, antenatal appointments, scans and outpatient maternity services continue in North Devon.

Please read the full update here.

Our dedicated web pages regarding the temporary suspension are regularly updated so please check them for the latest information.