I am delighted to hear that NHS England has now updated it maternity guidance in relation to supporting pregnant mothers and parents – including for neonatal services.
The changes mean any pregnant women can now have a partner by their side during maternity appointments, labour and after birth, despite the ongoing challenges with COVID 19. The guidance also recognises that parents should never be considered visitors to their baby on the neonatal unit, and that NHS Trusts should be working to facilitate access at all times of day.
This is fantastic news. I have been raising my concerns over these restrictions repeatedly at sessions of the Health and Social Care Committee, as well as supporting the campaign led by my colleague Alicia Kearns.
From conversations with our local Trusts I have been reassured they are operating within the guidelines with immediate effect, however I will be keeping a close eye on how successfully the changes are implemented over the coming weeks. If any constituents experience problems, please do get in touch with my office immediately.
