A survey of women who used maternity services shows they received a high standard of care before, during and after labour.
The National Maternity Survey was completed by women who were cared for at either Scunthorpe or Grimsby hospitals, as well as in the local community.
Thirty of the survey’s core 52 questions, on all aspects of maternity provision; antenatal care, care during labour and birth, and post-natal care, were rated over 90% by the 295 women who took part.
Ellie Monkhouse, Chief Nurse, said: “Each year, our maternity teams support around 3,800 births, as well as antenatal and postnatal care. Our priority is the safety of women and their babies by providing them with the best birthing experience possible.
“The survey was open during early 2021 and, despite our patients providing their feedback during the height of the pandemic when challenging national COVID-19 restrictions were in place, we’re really proud of the results we’ve received.”
During labour and birth, the results from respondents show:
- 95% were treated with respect and dignity
- 95% had confidence and trust in staff
- 95% were involved enough in decisions about their care
- 95% were treated with kindness and understanding
On advice and information, the results from respondents show:
- 98% found that midwives took personal circumstances into account when giving advice
- 96% were given enough information before induction
- 94% were provided with enough information (in hospital after birth)
- 91% were provided with relevant information about feeding their baby
Ellie added: “It’s clear from the results that most of the women, at the time, felt we provided the care they expected and deserved during such an important time of their lives. This is great to see and is a testament to our maternity staff who go above and beyond every day.
“We are always looking at how we can build on and improve the experience our patients have with us, which is why we don’t just rely on the annual national survey for feedback but routinely ask for thoughts and experiences to be shared. We also work closely with our local Maternity Voices Partnership to gain a wider understanding of what matters most to women and families.
“From the survey results, we’ve identified six key areas for improvement. This includes providing more choice for women on where they can have their baby, supporting women with their physical recovery after the birth and instilling even more confidence and trust in our staff.”
On Thursday 10 February the Care Quality Commission (CQC) published the results of the 2021 survey of women’s experiences of maternity care in England. The survey received responses from 23,479 women in England and Northern Lincolnshire and Goole NHS Foundation Trust was one of 122 acute NHS trusts that took part.
