RCM comment on the temporary pause of births at Lagan Valley Midwife Led Unit

By RCM on 31 March 2022 RCM Women Wellbeing Of Women Maternity Safety

The South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust has temporarily paused births at its midwifery-led unit at Lagan Valley Hospital.

Responding, Karen Murray, Director for Northern Ireland at the Royal College of Midwives (RCM), said: “This will be very disappointing for women who were due to give birth on the unit but any concerns about their safety must take priority. The important thing now is to ensure alternative arrangements are being made quickly in discussion with the women affected.

“Safety concerns within any service must be looked at as a matter of the utmost urgency so we welcome the investigation announced by the trust.  

“The RCM will work with the trust throughout this process which we hope will be resolved quickly, and that it will give reassurance to women using the unit and those in the area who may do so in the future. We will also be supporting our members working on the unit through what will also be a difficult time for them."

The Trust has confirmed to the RCM that all current ante-natal and post-natal services will continue to be provided in the unit. However, expectant mothers will be offered alternative care, including Midwifery Led care in the Home from Home Unit in the Ulster Hospital

ENDS