Mothers invited to influence maternity services (From Gazette & Herald)

Mothers invited to influence maternity services

10:16am Wednesday 23rd January 2013 in News

LOCAL women who have had a baby in the last five years are being invited to help shape maternity services by sharing their experiences at a user forum.

York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust provides midwifery care to women living in and around York, North Yorkshire, North East Yorkshire and Ryedale, an area of 3,400 square miles.

Women can choose to give birth at York Hospital, Scarborough Hospital or at home with midwife support. Last year, between April 2011 to March 2012, more than 5,000 babies were born in the patch.

Steve Hogarth, head of midwifery at the trust, said: “We know there are mums who would like to help make a difference which is why we are asking them to come forward to take part in a user forum.

“These informal events will enable women who have recently had a baby to talk about their experiences, what they found positive and any areas where we can make improvements.

“It is also a great opportunity for new mums to network, meet new people and make friends.”

The events will take place at Scarborough Hospital, Postgraduate Centre Room S33, on January 29, 1pm-3.30pm and York Hospital, LaRC Seminar Room, January 30, 1pm-3.30pm For information or to register email Alison Smith at alison.smith@york.nhs.uk