Welsh Government accepts review recommendations and launches three-year improvement programme
THE WELSH Government has announced plans to strengthen national oversight of maternity and neonatal services across Wales after accepting the recommendations of a major independent assessment.
The comprehensive review examined maternity and neonatal services across the country and identified a number of strengths within the system, including positive feedback from expectant mothers and their partners. However, it also highlighted areas where the NHS must improve.
The assessment was led by former Children’s Commissioner for Wales, Sally Holland, and was commissioned following concerns raised in earlier investigations into services at Swansea Bay University Health Board as well as similar reviews within NHS trusts in England.
Health Secretary Jeremy Miles confirmed the Welsh Government has accepted all of the report’s recommendations – seven in full and one in part – and will now launch a three-year improvement programme.
The programme will introduce stronger national leadership through the creation of a National Strategic Oversight Board, designed to drive improvements in maternity services across Wales.
Other measures include the introduction of real-time safety monitoring systems, a national forum to share best practice, and improved guidance to health boards to ensure discussions about birth options become a routine part of maternity and neonatal care.
Plans also include the development of a national service specification for the induction of labour, alongside updated workforce planning.
Organisations including Health Education and Improvement Wales and NHS Performance and Improvement will work together to redevelop perinatal workforce plans to ensure health boards maintain safe staffing levels.
A clear standard operating procedure, described as trauma-informed and family-centred, will also be introduced to guide health boards when responding to serious incidents.
Mr Miles said the reforms are intended to ensure families receive safe, high-quality care.
“All mothers, babies and families have the right to safe, high-quality care,” he said.
“I commissioned the national assurance assessment to provide an independent, objective examination of maternity and neonatal services. It highlights areas of excellence, identifies where improvements are needed, and reinforces the dedication and professionalism of our workforce.
“I want to thank the panel for their work and am grateful to all those who engaged with the assessment process. Their insights and experiences have been invaluable, ensuring the voices of women, families, staff and communities across Wales are reflected in the final report.
“The Welsh Government and the NHS will now take forward the recommendations to ensure lasting improvements are made to maternity and neonatal services.”
