I had my son in February 2007 at Chase Farm. I was booked into the Ridgeway Birth Centre (after a bit of a fight because my BMI was just below the minimum of 18.5).
I'd only been in the Ridgeway for about half an hour when meconium was discovered in my waters and I was sent down to the antenatal ward. I have to say that, despite my initial dread, the care was fantastic. I was probably very lucky because it all seemed very quiet that evening, but I had two midwives with me the whole time I was in labour, and they did their best to follow my birth plan as much as possible despite having to monitor me constantly etc.
After a few hours I was examined internally and my son was discovered to be undiagnosed breech. A consultant was called and I was advised that the only safe option for both of us was a Caesarian section. Even then I had fantastic care, although it seemed to take ages between being told I would have to have a section and actually going to theatre. The surgical team were fantastic and made me feel really relaxed, even joking with me throughout the procedure. The surgeon obviously did a fantastic job because my C-section scar is virtually invisible and not at all lumpy.
Postnatal care was pretty good during the day, although a little scant at night. But I felt I was well looked after and the midwives were more than willing to devote time to helping me breastfeed. The food was absolutely dreadful though - DH ended up cooking me meals at home and bringing them in! One midwife in particular - Jenny Marshall, who also ran our antenatal classes - was fantastic.
I was really scared when I discovered I'd have to go down to the antenatal ward and wasn't thrilled at the idea of a section, but I have to say that my overall experience was very positive and I certainly wouldn't object to going to Chase Farm again.
I hope that provides some reassurance that it's not all bad! BTW, of the 6 other mums I've kept in touch with from my antenatal class, only one had a negative experience.