Coronavirus: Here's what you need to know if you're due to give birth at Jessops in Sheffield soon

Paula Schofield, Nurse Director and Head of Midwifery, said: “Our main priority has to be to keep mums and babies as safe as possible and limit the spread of the COVID-19 virus which is why we are taking all precautions possible.

“Therefore, in line with maternity services nationally, the following restrictions have been introduced.”

These are:

· Only one birth partner is allowed either in labour or at an elective caesarean section. This person must be COVID-19 symptom free and not self-isolating

· After the baby is born there will be no access to the postnatal wards for the partner or family.

“This has been a very difficult decision because we know what a special time a birth is for families and it is something everyone wants to celebrate,” added Ms Schofield.

“However, we have to do all we can to limit the spread of this virus and abide by national social distancing guidance.

“We are therefore asking for understanding and for people to be kind to our staff, who are trying to do the right thing for women and their babies during this unprecedented time.”

The number of people who have died in Sheffield from the coronavirus continues to rise, with an increase of six reported today.

Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust have confirmed four patients passed away on Sunday (March 29) and a further two on Monday (March 30).