Watford General Hospital in special mesaures

[Rocky82]

I'm due to have my second child at Watford in February (my first was born in London) and I read this weekend that it has been put into special measures, with the maternity ward singled out for being short staffed. What are people's experiences there? I have been advised by friends to request a home birth instead, but my first labour, although quick, required an episiotomy and ventouse I don't fancy being stuck at home if history repeats itself. I have been earmarked for the midwife-led ABC suite at Watford as I'm considered low risk.
Would welcome any advice - or reassurance!
Thanks in anticipation...

[Grazia1984]

Why is it always around here. I had 3 at Northwick Park before it was in special measure and told it was the worst maternity unit in the country. Why always around us here with some of the best doctors in the land and most doctors as everyone wants to live in London. We should be the best not the worst. I have no experience of Watford maternity. Hillingdon was fine. With all the babies I came out after 6 hours though as I think hospitals are not always that safe places to be and nice to get back to your own home ASAP.

[cookielove]

I have had several friends give birth in Watford and have had a good experience. I had a minimal amount of prenatal care there and it was fine. The buildings are old but the staff are lovely.

Car parking is dire though!

I also have personal friendship's with a couple of the children nurses and they are brilliant!