The SDLP’s Mark H Durkan has called for the delivery of a long overdue updated Maternity Strategy for the North of Ireland.
Mr Durkan said this strategy in conjunction with the recently launched perinatal mental health community team rollout, will go a long way in providing new mothers and their families with a comprehensive support framework.
Said the SDLP Foyle Assembly candidate: “The North’s maternity strategy has not been updated for more than a decade. In fact, it has been three years since the existing strategy came to an end.
“The need for a renewed framework is more profound now than ever given the changing face of our health system and how services are delivered.
“I sought an update from Health Minister Robin Swann on the progress of an updated strategy. While I appreciate that resources have been redirected given the demands of the COVID pandemic, I cannot accept the long overdue delays in implementing this crucial framework.
“It must be among the list of priorities within the next mandate.
“The events of recent years have highlighted the need for transformation right across health and that need is acute where maternity services are concerned.
“I recognise that some progress has been made, particularly in relation to perinatal mental health. Access to specialist care for new parents is a necessity, even more so as we navigate the fallout of the pandemic.
“Improving and widening access to this crucial support is something I have consistently advocated for, having met and heard testimony from parents brave enough to share their experiences.
“No parent should suffer in silence during what can prove an isolating time; the implementation of perinatal mental health community teams within each trust area will be essential to ensure new parents and babies have the best start in life.
“I understand the recruitment process for this provision is underway and I have sought an update on the rollout for the Western Trust.”
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