Llais, the independent body dedicated to representing the interests of the people of Wales in respect of their health and social care services, is pleased to see the improvements in maternity services at Swansea Bay University Health Board (SBUHB), described in the recently published HIW Report. However, concerns remain over the time being taken to action and communicate the necessary improvements.
Whilst it is reassuring for people to see positive steps forward in many areas set out in the original Health Inspectorate Wales report, Llais is concerned about the pace of change in several important areas, and the level of clear communication and engagement with families. With around 3,200 births in Swansea Bay each year, addressing these challenges as quickly as possible is crucial to local service users. Llais is concerned to see that as recently as April 2024, a further Immediate Improvement Plan was warranted. To build back trust in the service we have urged the Health Board to take forward all remaining actions, communicate progress, and meet their agreed timescales to avoid any more delays
Llais has heard that whilst many people felt involved in their care, a significant number of people told us that they experienced issues with communication, and that they did not always feel respected, or adequately supported. This makes the Patient Experience Advisory Group Llais called for even more important. Llais would encourage families to come forward and join this, by contacting maternityexperience@llaiscymru.org. You can also contact the Llais Neath Port Talbot and Swansea office directly on 01639683490.
Mwoyo Makuto, Regional Director for Neath Port Talbot and Swansea Llais said: “Based on what people are telling us, we are concerned about local maternity services. We are aware that some people have lost trust that their voices will be heard and acted upon. That is where our statutory duties to listen to people ensuring their voices are heard by service providers is important. The pregnancy and giving birth journey is one of the most important experiences of people’s lives. It is important to get it right for families. It is also important to learn from incidents when things go wrong.”
Llais acknowledges the recent initiative by the Interim Chair of the independent review panel to meet with affected families. Llais has already begun supporting some families in these meetings and has extended an offer of support to all families impacted by these issues. While Llais acknowledges and supports the ongoing efforts of the health board, its role as an independent voice for the people of Wales means Llais will continue to hold the health board to account.
To learn more about Llais, click here to visit the website.
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