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Launch of Baby Steps to Better Care
posted on 10/11/2008

I was pleased to host a reception in the Assembly to launch a report by the premature baby charity Bliss.

 

The report ‘Baby Steps to Better Care’ shows that progress has been made but that there is still a long way to go in order to bring up standards. In particular the report calls for improvements in the neonatal transport system and the number of neonatal nurses in Wales.

 

It was great to have so many people and Assembly Members attend the reception, and also to have the Health Minister address the guests. We heard from parents who told of their personal experiences and the difficulties they faced – all however were united in their praise for the work and dedication of neonatal nurses in Wales.

 

As a former nurse I have seen first hand the exceptional commitment nurses give to the job and how hard it can often be. This is an area which is close to all of our hearts.

 

I am glad that the Assembly Government is taking the issue seriously and has announced it intention to devise all-Wales standards and for the additional £2m a year announced in the draft budget for Wales’ 13 Neonatal Units. Although this will make huge strides in driving up standards and facilities we know there will be more to do and that a concerted effort is needed.

 

I have tabled a statement of opinion in the Assembly and so far members of every party have signed up to it - here is what it says:

 

This Assembly

 

notes:

  • The report by Bliss: 'Baby Steps to Baby Care’.
  • The exceptional dedication and care neonatal nurses provide for mothers and the 3,800 premature babies born every year.

 

welcomes:

  • WAGs commitment to improve neonatal care;
  • the future launch of all-Wales standards;
  • the additional £2m a year in the draft budget for Wales’ 13 Neonatal Units.

 

calls on the WAG to:

  • Consider Bliss’s recommendations in developing policy, working with healthcare partners, targeting resources;
  • Increase the number of neonatal nurses and improve transport networks as a priority;
  • Work to further improve standards.

 

You can view the report here: http://www.bliss.org.uk/news_item.asp?itemTitle=Baby+steps+to+better+care&section=22&itemid=802

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