The Care Quality Commission this week published a report into local maternity services, raising some significant concerns and have downgraded the service to inadequate. I have seen the report and know how concerning this will be to local residents, especially expectant parents.
Earlier today I met with the CEO of Ashford and St Peter’s Trust to discuss the report and the measures they have in place to address these issues and deliver a high quality service. I am reassured that the team at St Peter’s have acted quickly in response to the concerns raised and have already amended triage processes and staffing levels, and brought in additional resource to oversee the service while a full review and improvements are carried out.
It is important to note that the report did highlight areas of good practice, including the care and commitment of staff and the culture across the service. While the rating is very concerning, this should not be seen as a reflection on the hard working nurses and midwives who work tirelessly to support mothers and babies every day.
Maternity services nationally are also facing difficulties due to concerns raised over the use of Equinox, or gas and air’, and the potential health impacts on midwives of long term exposure. This has led several Trusts, including St Peter’s, to temporarily remove the use of Equinox while they review it’s use, ventilation and impact on staff.
It is right that staff safety is prioritised, but I do understand this will also be concerning for expectant mothers. The Trust is contacting all affected to provide information on the situation and other options available. It is hoped that the suspension of its use will be lifted as soon as possible once measures are in place to ensure staff safety. If you are personally affected by this you can contact the St Peter’s maternity service here. Alternatively you can write to me and I will be happy to raise any issue or concern on your behalf.
I will continue to monitor this closely as part of my regular meetings with the Trust leadership.
