NHS Tayside is to offer pregnant women the option to give birth at home from next week as it moves into the next phase of easing lockdown restrictions.

From next Monday mums-to-be will be able to choose between Dundee Midwifery Unit or the Labour Suite at Ninewells Hospital, or elect for a home birth.

Lead midwife, Lesley Sharkey, said they were delighted to be able to offer the option again.

“The safety of women and their babies is our main priority and we will ensure that we will be adhering to all government guidance surrounding Covid-19,” she said.

“This is the first stage of maternity services within Tayside returning to normal. We are continuing to review our other suspended services on a regular basis.”

Sharkey added: “Our midwives are continuing to work hard and are absolutely committed to continuing to provide a high quality patient-centred maternity service.”

All women will be assessed for Covid-19 in their homes and only one birth partner can be present during labour and birth in the home.

Labour and birthing at community maternity units at Perth Royal Infirmary and Arbroath Infirmary will remain temporarily suspended.