Maternity investigation is much needed, says MSP

A NATIONAL investigation into maternity services has been welcomed by a Southern Scotland MSP.

Carol Mochan MSP took part in a recent Holyrood debate in which the fate of the Galloway Community Hospital was front and centre.

And she was one of the Scottish Labour MSPs calling for a debate on maternity services after a series of inspection reports and a TV programme revealed major concerns around staffing, culture, and oversight of patient safety across Scotland.

Ms Mochan spoke about her concerns regarding the state of maternity services in rural communities and the unique challenges people in our area face when accessing healthcare.

In particular, she highlighted the experiences of mums from Stranraer, some of whom have had to travel over 70 miles to give birth.

And she flagged up The Galloway Community Hospital Action Group for their powerful campaign against the closure of the maternity unit in Stranraer.

Following the debate, the Scottish Government reversed its original decision and confirmed that a review will be carried out once an expert health group assesses the best way to conduct it.

Commenting, Carol Mochan, who is Scottish Labour’s Women’s Health spokesperson, said: “Any loss or harm in maternity and neonatal services is tragic, especially when deaths could have been prevented.

“Thankfully, these incidents are rare, and the majority of women have safe and good experiences when giving birth. But this does not diminish the experiences of those who do not.

“Far too many women across Scotland face uncertainties ahead of giving birth, and it is clear that issues with staffing and culture are not isolated, but the treatment of mothers in the South West has been particularly concerning.

“I welcome the Scottish Government’s decision to launch an investigation, which will help uncover the challenges within maternity care. The investigation must be carried out with urgency, and it is essential that it leads to meaningful action to improve services.”