Fatal failings in UK maternity care

[bubble99]

First off, can I say that I'm not an NHS basher. I am a Registered Nurse and I've had two fantastic deliveries on the NHS but my last delivery was horrendous. Awful to the extent that one of my healthy (7lb7oz) twin boys died during labour.

'The Times' today ran a front page article about failings in maternity/delivery care, and my particular view is that salaries are being withheld for key clinical staff, while funding seems to be limitless for layer upon layer of 9-5 middle managers with seemingly meaningless job titles and duties. I know that I'm not exactly a ray of sunshine on a Sunday evening for starting this thread but I'd be interested to hear your views.

[jolou1]

ELf, I had my two DSs at the City Hospital and it was absolutely fine. The hotel wasn't available on both occasions (once for staff shortages, the other because I wasn't a straightforward delivery) So don't pin your hopes on it. The staff were friendly, but hurried. The main thing is, we all emerged healthy and happy and I genuinely haven't heard any horror stories about the place. I know it varies from hospital to hospital which really worries me. We all deserve a benchmark standard of care which should be the same across the board.

[Elf1981]

Dont worry about frightening me, I let myself read threads like this, but I'd rather have knowledge covering everything than going into something a bit blind.
I'll keep you all posted about how my birth experience goes.
Luckily my DH is very vocal so I'm sure if I tell him my issues, he'll be happy enough to shout them out when I'm in pain or cant talk myself!!

Jolou1 - your comment is very true, all hospitals should have the same level of good quality care. I'd be happy to sign any petition that was started. Why should people have to pay to go private to ensure they get good quality care?