Liverpool Women's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust Listening Event
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This report was produced jointly by Healthwatch Liverpool and Healthwatch Sefton following a listening event at Liverpool Women’s NHS Foundation Trust on 10 July 2023. The Healthwatch spoke to patients, family members and staff. The visit was part of an ongoing programme of visits to local health and social care providers. The visit took place on a Monday, because this is when the Non-English Speaking Team (NEST) provide a drop-in service for patients.
The two Healthwatch developed a survey for use on the day. 20 surveys were completed with patients and family members. Several staff members also gave feedback. The Healthwatch spoke to people in the Antenatal Clinic waiting area, Outpatient department, and people on Maternity, Gynaecology and Neonatal wards.
Antenatal clinic waiting rooms were mostly clean, calm and organised with an overall welcoming feel. Though there was no reception area, staff were visible and interacting with patients. There were some improvements that could be made to signage and the Healthwatch did not see any translated information available on notice boards nor information about how to access translated information if required.
The NEST team was found to provide a much-needed service and to demonstrate a commitment to working in partnership with voluntary and community organisations to provide positive outcomes for women and families who are vulnerable and in need of additional support.
Findings about the Maternity Unit were generally positive, though there were discussions about the potential issues of all the bays having curtains drawn. The Healthwatch also learned that there is not currently funding for Breast Start support for women who give birth at the hospital. Staff also said that they lack capacity on the wards and therefore prioritise support, in line with funding streams, to those living in Liverpool and sometimes have to say ‘no’ to Sefton residents seeking support.
Gynaecology was clean and felt calm and organised.
He Neonatal Unit is newly refurbished and felt different from the rest of the departments and areas visited.
The Outpatients waiting area was very quiet, and therefore the Healthwatch would like to visit anther time to talk to more patients.