RCN Responds To England Maternity Report, UK

Main Category: Pregnancy / Obstetrics
Also Included In: Nursing / Midwifery
Article Date: 11 Jul 2008 - 4:00 PDT

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The Royal College of Nursing has commented on the Healthcare Commission's Review of Maternity Services in England, stating that women need to have confidence in the health service and receive support of the highest possible standard. The College has also highlighted the issues surrounding staffing in maternity services.

Dr Peter Carter, Chief Executive & General Secretary of the Royal College of Nursing said:

"The report shows that a large number of women have a favourable view of maternity services, particularly the care they receive during labour. However, on the whole, staffing levels are still below average and midwives are not given sufficient time to attend training courses. Maternity services need to start reviewing their performance and looking at ways of providing an improved patient experience and the government needs to ensure that sufficient levels of investment are available to recruit and retain midwives."

The Healthcare Commission has urged the NHS to improve maternity services by enhancing the quality of clinical care and the experiences of women.

The Healthcare Commission report took information from all NHS maternity units in England and conducted surveys of some 5,000 maternity staff and more than 26,000 mothers. More information can be found on the Healthcare Commission website.

Royal College of Nursing