TO FOLLOW

The sub-committee were informed that a discussion on capacity issues will be heard at the next meeting on 18 April 2024. For this meeting, residents Momina Begum and Farhana Anjuman, discussed their experiences of poor maternity services provided in the borough. The residents described how some hospital staff dismissed requests for assistance, were persistently requested to either regulate diabetes with insulin or accept epidurals against their wishes, told not to push whilst having contractions and left alone by night staff to relieve themselves after a premature birth. These events resulted in severe anxiety for the women and a lack of empathy by staff.

Farhana Anjuman observed the vastly different treatment received in Italian hospitals where her first two children were born, compared to the Royal London hospital’s service. She was kept in the hospital longer in Italy and received compassionate care from staff there. Momina Begum suggested that some night staff at the Royal London, appear to refrain from taking responsibility without adequate clinical handovers and expect mothers to wait for day staff assistance.

Karen Wint, Chief Executive of Sister Circle, presented an overview of the charity that supports women with challenging experiences and complex issues and advocates for more investment in women’s services. Many of the women have experienced gender violence and are more likely to experience poor health care.

Ms Wint informed the sub-committee that around 10 years ago, the borough assisted in funding the ‘Maternity Mates’ programme, to support women who experienced similar issues. Local women residents are recruited and trained by the program to support pregnant women, referred by BARTS Health, ensuring they receive adequate care and support. Although this has improved health care in many cases, poor care concerns are still being addressed.

BARTS were highly commended for the ongoing learning and education programs for health professionals and welcome this in practice on the wards. Although some women receive positive care, the service requires improvement, as all women should experience the same quality service. Members were also informed  of a UK midwife shortage which exacerbates the issue.

Irantzu Perez Arribas, Head of Programmes at Sister Circle then presented an overview of issues faced by 13 women who gave lived experiences of maternity services. The main concerns were around resources, culture and care. They also recommended improvements, which included having one midwife, better clinical handovers, and a holistic approach to pregnant patients, to significantly improve the experience.

Other recommendations included, reducing request to induce  labour rather than allowing a natural birth, more effective post-natal care, to reduce the need for urgent care, breast feeding support, more kindness and empathy given to mothers by staff, and  a reduced use of technical terminology which can be frightening or confusing, particularly for women who do not speak English as a first language or have disabilities such as hearing impairments. Although BARTS is increasing the language support, pregnant women should be informed that this is available.

Further to  questions from the sub-committee, Momina Begum, Farhana Anjuman, Karen Wint and Irantzu Perez Arribas;

·       Observed that services should not be affected despite any staff shortages and regardless of the shift pattern and time of birth, a level of compassion towards mothers should be shown.

·       Noted that a lack of funding and professionalism has caused disproportionate maternity provision. More recruitment and training for midwives and nursing staff is needed to understand the anxiety women who give birth can experience.

·       Encouraged mothers to express any concerns they have at the earliest opportunity.

·       Observed that maternity services are not culturally sensitive or responsive to BAME mothers, particularly with those who do not speak English as a first language. A culture change to treat women of all races and religions is also required to improve services. Cultural awareness training should be undertaken on an annual basis for health professionals.

·       Explained that continuity of care is crucial to improve services, to ensure that pregnant women's complex needs are met.

·       Clarified that the feedback on women with disabilities received from Sister Circle relates primarily to women with hearing impairments and has received mixed responses.

Further to  questions from the sub-committee, Lisa Dinh, External Relations Manager, BARTS Health NHS Trust;

·       Confirmed that colleagues from BARTS Health NHS Trust will be attending the sub-committee on 18 April 2024 to discuss clinical concerns raised at the meeting. A written brief will also be submitted highlighting specific measures to address service delivery and patient concerns.

RESOLVED that;

1.    A written brief highlighting specific measures to address service delivery and patient concerns be brought back to the sub-committee at the next meeting scheduled for 18 April 2024.

2.    The presentation be noted.