Local Maternity Services Earn High Marks in National Survey

Recent results from a national survey reveal that maternity services in the Doncaster and Bassetlaw region are performing positively, with local families reporting experiences that align closely with national standards. Over 100 participants contributed to this year’s survey, reflecting the quality of care provided by the Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH), which supported the births of 4,280 babies last year.

The survey’s findings are encouraging. Notably, no responses fell into the “much worse”, “worse”, or “somewhat worse” categories compared to other organizations. Out of the 54 questions assessed, most were rated similarly to national averages, while one question scored somewhat better than average and two surpassed the performance of most other services. This marks a significant improvement from last year when two questions received ratings below expected levels.

Positive Developments and Continued Commitment

Lois Mellor, Director of Midwifery at DBTH, expressed satisfaction with the results, stating, “We welcome the findings of this year’s survey and are reassured to see that service users continue to report experiences consistent with maternity services nationally.” She emphasized the hard work of the teams in providing safe and compassionate care, which has been reflected in the positive feedback from families.

Mellor also highlighted the importance of community feedback, inviting families to participate in the next survey scheduled for April 2026. “Your feedback helps us understand what is working well and where we can make further improvements,” she added.

The commitment of the midwifery team has left a lasting impression on many families, as evidenced by recent public comments shared with the Trust. One parent remarked, “The midwives who cared for me were amazing. Their compassion and reassurance made a frightening time so much easier.”

Another family recalled a midwife’s diligence in addressing health concerns, stating, “Her persistence made a huge difference to our baby’s health. We’ll never forget her.” These testimonials highlight the vital role midwives play in the community and the deep appreciation families have for the continuity of care.

Community Engagement and Future Goals

The results of the survey not only reflect the quality of care but also the commitment to ongoing improvement within the maternity services. The Trust’s proactive approach to gathering feedback demonstrates a dedication to enhancing the experience for families.

As the community looks ahead, DBTH remains focused on maintaining high standards of care and responding to the needs of local families. For more information about maternity services at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals, visit their official website: https://www.dbth.nhs.uk/services/maternity/.

This positive feedback underscores the importance of maternity care in the region and reinforces the commitment of health professionals to provide exceptional support during one of life’s most significant moments.