28.01.13
£25m maternity fund boost
The Department for Health has announced a £25m fund for a 100 hospitals to improve and upgrade maternity units.
The fund opened to applications in November, and the bids have now been judged and awarded funding. The improvements include almost 40 new birthing pools, eight new midwife-led units, more ensuite facilities, beds and family rooms in almost 50 units and better bereavement spaces at nearly 20 hospitals.
The work will offer women more freedom to move around and change position when in labour.
Health minister Dr Dan Poulter said: “A new arrival in the family is a joyous time but it can present a real challenge for mums and families, particularly those experiencing it for the first time.
“We are now going to see huge improvements to maternity services right across the country – from birthing pools to family rooms and even new midwifery-led units. These will make a big difference to the experience mums and families have of NHS maternity services, with more choice and a better environment where women can give birth.
“Maternity units have had to show evidence that they asked mums and dads about what changes they need to make – so we know these are the changes local people really want to see.”
The Royal College of Midwives’ chief executive Cathy Warwick said: “Dozens of new birthing pools, eight new midwife-led units, more en suite facilities in dozens of units, and lots more besides. It is great to learn about the positive changes that this extra £25m will make to many units up and down the country.”
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