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Accessing medical records - Medway Foundation Trust

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Accessing medical records - Medway Foundation Trust

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Access to your own records | Medway NHS

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Under the General Data Protection Regulations 2018 anyone can make a request to see the information that Medway NHS Foundation Trust holds about them.

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DadSpace - Brotherly support between fathers

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DadSpace - Brotherly support between fathers

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To provide a safe space for dads to talk, listen and share their experiences of fatherhood across the country.

We believe DadSpace should be accessible to all dads and hope to see one in every town or city.

Consistency is key, we aim to offer DadSpace meet-ups on a regular basis.

Dads know they’ve always got a place to go. We’ve got your back!

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To provide a safe space for dads to talk, listen and share their experiences of fatherhood across the country.

We believe DadSpace should be accessible to all dads and hope to see one in every town or city.

Consistency is key, we aim to offer DadSpace meet-ups on a regular basis.

Dads know they've always got a place to go. We've got your back!

We celebrate fatherhood and promote good communication

The impact fathers have on a young person's life is diverse and we believe the whole family unit benefits from our sessions.

DadSpace is a free space

We will have no financial barriers to participation. Our core DadSpace sessions will remain free for all dads to attend and be heard.

We are here for each other

DadSpace facilitates a strong peer to peer support network for dads, known as the Brotherhood. We are also able to signpost dads to outside support and services if needed.

In a complex and busy world, we aim to keep DadSpace simple.

Integrity and honesty is everything at DadSpace

In all of our interactions, we promote respect, tolerance and mindfulness of each others privacy and time. Creating a friendly and inclusive culture for all dads.

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DadSpace provides Brotherly Support Between Fathers! Safe Spaces to talk, listen and share experiences of fatherhood.

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Baby Umbrella is an award-winning small charity offering breastfeeding and early parenting support to families in West Kent. Our vision is for every family in West Kent to have access to skilled and compassionate support during their parenting journey. We are here to listen, support and empower parents to make the decisions that feel right for them and their babies.

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Baby Umbrella runs free breastfeeding and early parenting support in Sevenoaks, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells and online. We offer individual appointments with Lactation Consultants and Breastfeeding Counsellors and our Perinatal Listening Service offers additional emotional support. We also run support groups with trained Peer Supporters.

We see over 1,000 families a year and are open 49 weeks a year. We offer support with  breastfeeding, bottle feeding, expressing breastmilk and introducing solids. We also support families with infant sleep, adjusting to parenthood and much more.

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​Did you or your partner experience a difficult pregnancy, birth, feeding or postnatal period? Would you like to speak to one of our Listening Practitioners about your experience?

Our FREE Listening Service is run by Breastfeeding Counsellors with additional training in perinatal mental health. Our practitioners are here to listen with kindness and compassion in a safe and confidential space on Zoom.

You can talk to us about any experience that felt challenging for you in and around pregnancy, birth and the early months of parenting. Examples might include: pregnancy, giving birth, feeding your baby, adjusting to parenthood and family life, relationship struggles, high needs and unsettled babies, loss, medical or health complications, or simply if you're feeling overwhelmed, tearful or anxious or if you're finding it hard to process your feelings.

If you would like support to process your journey, our service offers a confidential space to talk about your experience and the impact it has had on you. You are completely in control of what you'd like to talk about throughout the session.

Listening Service Testimonials

"It helped to have a confidential space with an impartial listener to acknowledge my true feelings about the birth and everything that had happened since. It helped alleviate some of the pressure that had been mounting inside me. The appointment was easy to arrange and at short notice. It's great to know I can use the service again if I need to but not be committed to a whole series of appointments."

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Would you like a safe space to explore your experiences of pregnancy, birth, feeding or the postnatal period? Book a free 75 minute Zoom listening appointment with us today.

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A baby loss charity providing support and counselling for bereaved parents and families 

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A baby loss charity providing support and counselling for bereaved parents and families 

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Since 2010, we have worked to improve the way bereaved parents are cared for by hospitals and to better educate midwives on how to care for grieving parents. Sadly, stillbirths and neo-natal deaths occur daily, yet many hospitals are not equipped to deal with the parental care required, they have inadequate facilities and their staff receive little to no bereavement training.

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Welcome to Abigail's Footsteps... We are a baby loss charity providing support and counselling for bereaved parents and families as well as specialist bereavement training for midwives and healthcare professionals. Since 2010, we have worked to improve the way bereaved parents are cared for by hospitals and to better educate midwives on how to care for grieving parents.

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The government is able to support with costs associated with your baby's funeral. This is not means tested. This link will explain more and you can apply via the link too.

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The Children's Funeral Fund for England can help to pay for some of the costs of a funeral for a child under 18 or a baby stillborn after the 24th week of pregnancy.

It is not means-tested: what you earn or how much you have in savings will not affect what you get.

The burial or cremation must take place in England.

What the fund covers

The Children's Funeral Fund for England can help pay for the:

burial fees

cremation fees, including the cost of a doctor's certificate

coffin, shroud or casket (up to a cost of £300)

If you have other funeral expenses, you might be able to apply for Funeral Expenses Payment to cover them. You or your partner must be getting certain benefits - check if you're eligible for Funeral Expenses Payment.

How claiming works

The fees for the burial or cremation can be claimed directly by the burial or cremation provider - you should not be charged. How to claim for some other expenses (for example, the coffin) depends on if you are using a funeral director or not.

Claims must be made within 6 months of the funeral.

If you are using a funeral director

You do not need to submit any claims yourself.

The burial or cremation provider can claim for the fees of a burial or cremation. The money will be paid directly to them.

Your funeral director can claim for some other funeral expenses (for example, the coffin). The money will be paid directly to them.

If you are not using a funeral director

The burial or cremation provider can claim for the fees of a burial or cremation. The money will be paid directly to them.

Claim funeral costs online

You can claim for some other funeral expenses (for example, the coffin) online.

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Support for child funeral costs (Children's Funeral Fund for England)

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How to apply to the Children's Funeral Fund for help paying for a funeral for a child under 18

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We're passionate about supporting families

Our founders Jennie, Karen and Laura have worked in infant feeding support in West Kent for a total of 20 years.

We dream of a future where all parents find evidence-based, compassionate, empowering support wherever they turn, where strong communities come together to support each other, and where skilled practitioners across diverse specialisms work together as a team.

​

With your support, we're building a community to do just that.

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Make Birth Better - Birth trauma support for parents

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Make Birth Better - Birth trauma support for parents

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Research shows at least 1 in 3 women find some aspect of their birth traumatic. This translates to 225,000 new mums in the UK each year. There is very limited research on the prevalence of birth trauma in trans and non-binary folk but we know that their experiences of perinatal care are consistently worse across the board compared with cisgendered women (see more here).

So, in 2018 Perinatal Psychiatrist Dr Rebecca Moore and Clinical Psychologist Dr Emma Svanberg started a mission: to create a world where people no longer suffer from birth trauma. A pretty bold one, but at Make Birth Better we strongly believe it can be done.

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"We refuse to accept that 225,000 families per year start their journey into parenthood struggling with birth trauma. Particularly when we know how we can help."

- Dr Rebecca Moore, Make Birth Better Co-founder

Research shows at least 1 in 3 women find some aspect of their birth traumatic. This translates to 225,000 new mums in the UK each year. There is very limited research on the prevalence of birth trauma in trans and non-binary folk but we know that their experiences of perinatal care are consistently worse across the board compared with cisgendered women (see more here).

So, in 2018 Perinatal Psychiatrist Dr Rebecca Moore and Clinical Psychologist Dr Emma Svanberg started a mission: to create a world where people no longer suffer from birth trauma. A pretty bold one, but at Make Birth Better we strongly believe it can be done.

We support both parents and professionals impacted by birth trauma, we offer a wide range of training and we raise our voices through campaigning.

We also do whatever we can to support those conducting vital research into perinatal mental health. Are you conducting research around birth trauma in parents or vicarious trauma in maternity professionals? Then use our platform to advertise for participants in your study. Read more about how to share your project here.

"I was signposted to Make Birth Better following my own traumatic birth. I made use of free resources while I waited for mental health referrals. Knowing the good it did for me, I want to pass on the message to other parents and make it known that there is help and that work is being done to prevent future traumatic experiences."

- Sammie Fletcher, Make Birth Better Champion

Feeling supported after a traumatic experience often starts with finally being able to put a name to what happened. That's why we share with you what birth trauma means, and what it can feel or look like - on our website and our social media.

We know from a study we did in 2019 that 73% of women had never been asked about their birth experience. The thousands of parents we support tell us time and time again that they weren't given the support they needed to cope with their birth trauma. We're here for parents when they're looking for help or when they want to share what they went through. We're here to help if you're planning for another child after a distressing experience.

And, following our Make Birth Better model, we go full circle in supporting those impacted by birth trauma. We're here for professionals and partners too. Dealing with difficult births or complicated pregnancies can be traumatising. It can lead to what's referred to as vicarious or secondary trauma. You can read more about how this impacts professionals here, and how this impacts partners here.

"It was great to have a facilitated safe space to reflect and discuss issues we work with. Fantastic toolkits, frames of reference, examples of language to use."

- Shelley, Make Birth Better training attendee

Our training delivers a significant shift in knowledge, skills and confidence, with our attendees being much more likely to be able to prevent, diagnose and treat birth trauma. When course participants begin our training an average of 36% feel knowledgeable or very knowledgeable about how to recognise the signs of birth trauma. By the end of our training, 90% of participants feel this way.

We provide evidence-based training to organisations and individuals. We cover every aspect of perinatal trauma as well as vicarious trauma in professionals. And we have something for everyone - from free resources through to bespoke training designed to meet your exact needs. Read more about our free downloads, online courses, bespoke training and Annual Birth Trauma Summit.

"There can be no more excuses."

- Donna Ockenden, final report of The Independent Review of Maternity Services at The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (2022)

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Birth Trauma Support For Parents - Make Birth Better

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Did you feel intensely afraid, out of control or helpless during birth? Know that you're not alone. Find the information and support you need for birth trauma.

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Making Miracles a registered charity providing compassionate care & support for families coping with birth trauma & bereavement.

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Making Miracles a registered charity providing compassionate care & support for families coping with birth trauma & bereavement.

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Making Miracles is the birth trauma and bereavement care charity offering families the support, services and tools they need to help find their “new normal” following trauma and grief. Started in 2014 by our CEO, Kelly Wells, based in Kent in the South-East of England and have already been on an incredible journey.

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Making Miracles Registered Charity - Baby Trauma & Bereavement Care

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Making Miracles is a registered charity supporting families of high risk pregnancies, premature babies and baby loss. Baby Trauma & Bereavement Care.

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Libra Partnership - Advocacy Services in Medway

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Libra Partnership - Advocacy Services in Medway

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An independent service supporting those who need support to make a complaint about NHS treatment or care, including complaints about their GP, dentist, local hospital, ambulance service or pharmacy. This service can also support those making a complaint on someone else’s behalf, including if someone has died.

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Medway Advocacy Services | Libra Partnership

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Libra Partnership are pleased to offer the following Advocacy Services in Medway.

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Another advocacy service which may be able to support you if you don't fit the Maternity and Neonatal Independent Senior Advocate's criteria

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5 organisations (independent of the NHS and KCC) that all specialise in providing different services across the county. Together, they offer their advocacy services under the same name.

Click on any of the partner organisation logos at the bottom of this page to visit that organisation's own website.

When decisions are being made about our health and social welfare, it can be hard when we don't feel listened to, when what's important to us isn't taken seriously by others, or we just don't have the words to say what we really feel or want.

Advocates take time to understand your situation, explore the options and help you decide what you want to do and how you want to do it. They support you to look at your choices and reach decisions, but will not make decisions for you. They will only take action if you want them to.

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Information and support for families involved in the Coroner's Court

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Information & Support - Coroners Courts Support Service

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Below you can read what people have said about us after receiving our support at court. “The volunteer spent a good deal of time discussing forthcoming arrangements and answering any questions leading up to the event. She even arranged for my sister and I to visit the Coroner’s Court ahead of the inquest date so […]

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The Counselling Centre - Bereavement Support in West Kent

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The Counselling Centre - Bereavement Support in West Kent

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We work with adults and children and young people, aged 5-18, facing the loss of a loved one.

The need for this service in Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge, Sevenoaks and surrounding areas is growing.

We accept referrals from adults in schools, family members, or other professionals such as GPs. If in doubt we are happy to receive your call and we will guide you.

Our volunteer practitioners all have in depth training and experience of working in this field.

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Bereavement Support - The Counselling Centre

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The death of a child is unimaginable unless it’s something you’ve been through yourself. That’s why our helpline is operated by a dedicated team of volunteers who are all bereaved parents. If you’re a parent who has lost a child of any age, under any circumstances, and however recently or long ago, we’re here to help. We can also offer support to grandparents, siblings and the extended family, as well as professionals who have been impacted by the death of a child.

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Supporting bereaved parents and their families

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East Kent Sands is part of Sands, the stillbirth and neonatal death charity. Sands operates throughout the UK, supporting anyone affected by the death of a baby, working to improve the care bereaved parents receive, and promoting research and working closely with many different organisations to reduce the loss of babies’ lives.

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Grieving after a miscarriage, an ectopic pregnancy or a still-birth?

Miscarriage, still birth, ectopic pregnancy and neonatal death can be very lonely and frightening experiences as well as acutely painful. You may have experienced,or be experiencing some of the following feelings overwhelmed, abandoned, agony, anger, disappointment, confused, jealous, restless, anxious, alone, rejected, relieved, numb or many other emotions.

Our practitioners will support and help you at this very difficult time.

To speak with one of our Options Folkestone team or to book an appointment, call:

01303 242 777

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Pregnancy Loss Counselling

Grieving after a miscarriage, an ectopic pregnancy or a still-birth?

Miscarriage, still birth, ectopic pregnancy and neonatal death can be very lonely and frightening experiences as well as acutely painful. You may have experienced,or be experiencing some of the following feelings overwhelmed, abandoned, agony, anger, disappointment, confused, jealous, restless, anxious, alone, rejected, relieved, numb or many other emotions.

Our practitioners will support and help you at this very difficult time.

To speak with one of our Options Folkestone team or to book an appointment, call:

01303 242 777

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PREGNANCY LOSS COUNSELLING | Options Folkestone

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Grieving after a miscarriage, an ectopic pregnancy or a still-birth? Miscarriage, still birth, ectopic pregnancy and neonatal death can be very lonely and frightening experiences as well as acutely painful. You may have experienced,or be experiencing some of the following feelings overwhelmed, abandoned, agony, anger, disappointment, confused, jealous, restless, anxious, alone, rejected, relieved, numb or many other emotions.

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We are a voluntary organisation and a registered Charity, founded in 2000 to meet the need for a counselling service to cover the gap between Folkestone, Ashford and Hastings, for those that cannot afford private practice; we provide a low cost,  counselling service to anyone.

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We are a voluntary organisation and a registered Charity, founded in 2000 to meet the need for a counselling service to cover the gap between Folkestone, Ashford and Hastings, for those that cannot afford private practice; we provide a low cost, counselling service to anyone.

The aim of counselling is to help you feel in charge of your own life and to support you in working towards a more satisfying way of living. Many people benefit from personal counselling and the reasons people contact us are varied. Some examples are stress and anxiety, bereavement, sexual/physical abuse, relationship problems and addictions. Regardless of your reasons for getting in touch, we will be happy to work with you.

We will work with absolutely anyone; this includes children and young people, adults and couples.

He or she listens and works with you confidentially so that you are able to find your own solutions to a problem.

This will be discussed during your initial assessment.

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Affordable Counselling for all at New Romney Counselling Services

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Lets talk about loss - support for young people aged 18 to 35 in Rochester area

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Lets talk about loss - support for young people aged 18 to 35 in Rochester area

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We run meet ups across the UK for young people aged 18-35 encouraging everyone to talk about grief. 77% of 18-35 year olds have experienced grief yet 39% feel “uncomfortable” talking about it. Our meet ups are here to help: 100% of respondents said they wanted to attend another meet up again soon.

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Welcome to Let's Talk About Loss, a safe space to talk through taboos and address the reality of losing someone close to you when you are young.

A 2018 survey by Co-op Funeralcare found that 16 to 29-year-olds are the age group most likely to bottle up their grief and not talk about it, with 24% saying they "kept it to themselves" when suffering a bereavement. We're passionate about starting conversations and ending that taboo.

We run peer-led meet up groups in cities across the UK for young people aged 18 to 35 who have been bereaved at any stage. We believe that by meeting other young people who have experienced loss, we can share our stories and our struggles without fear, judgement or awkward silences. We'd love you to join us - find your local meet up group here!

In light of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, our meet ups are all virtual. We still have our blog, and you can submit your story by emailing blog@letstalkaboutloss.org. Thanks for visiting our website, we hope you find comfort and support here.

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Welcome to Let's Talk About Loss, a safe space to talk through taboos and address the reality of losing someone close to you when you are young. A 2018 survey by Co-op Funeralcare found that 16 to 29-year-olds are the age group most likely to bottle up their grief and not talk about it, with 24% saying they "kept it to themselves" when suffering a bereavement.

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East Kent Baby Memorial Gardens - Ashford

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East Kent Baby Memorial Gardens - Ashford

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Information about the baby memorial garden in Ashford.

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Ashford Baby Memorial Garden: Text

Ashford Baby Memorial Garden: Image

Ashford Baby Memorial Garden: What We Do

ASHFORD BABY MEMORIAL GARDEN

Many crematoria and cemeteries have special baby areas but often they are out of town and not easy to get to, and the baby areas themselves are sometimes quite a way from the car park, or bus stop. They are often very sad places not always very inviting, sometimes with areas overgrown or very cluttered. Memorials at crematoria and cemeteries often cost many hundreds of pounds for just a set number of years and are often too expensive for many people.

In 2011, a group of local volunteers got together and decided we needed something better for local people. After a lot of work, and a considerable amount of fundraising, raising around £30,000 they were able to create the wonderful Ashford Baby Memorial Garden in Ashford Town Centre. This is within the main Memorial Park, and is five minutes' walk from the shops, the buses and the railway station. The Baby Garden is open every single day during daylight hours and is completely accessible, with no steps.

When we designed the Garden, we wanted something that was bright and welcoming, and somewhere where we could remember our special babies in a positive way. We wanted something where members of the public would feel comfortable visiting, and somewhere where children were able to play when they came along to remember their brother or sister.

The end result was a beautiful garden, full of flowers and shrubs, and a really bright and vibrant area. We have two beautifully carved benches, one depicting a butterfly and the other a dove, and these were created specifically for us. The Garden is maintained by Aspire, Ashford Council's gardening contractor, for which we pay an annual fee.

Within the Garden, we have a lovely mosaic, created from well over 5,000 pieces - each one representing one of the 5,000 babies that die each year - created by local families in 2013. This has a teardrop design and is surrounded by 171 baby names, recorded forever. We now also have boards along the side of the Garden where we are able to offer name tiles, each one with a special baby's name and a date. In total we have over 380 baby names recorded in the garden forever.

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We are able to offer name tiles at a one-off cost of £40 each, although we can assist if payment is difficult. We place orders four times a year and have deadlines for receiving orders of 15 February, 15 May, 15 August and 15 November each year.

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In addition to the Ashford Baby Memorial Garden, we have a nameboard at the West Faversham Community Centre and in Westgate Park, Canterbury. We are keen to look at the possibilities of creating baby name tile boards in other community gardens in East Kent. If you know of somewhere that might be a possibility, please get in touch with us.

NAME TILES AND HOW TO ORDER

Ashford Baby Memorial Garden: Text

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Ashford Baby Memorial Garden | East Kent Baby Memorial Gardens

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Ashford Baby Memorial Garden: Text Ashford Baby Memorial Garden: Image Ashford Baby Memorial Garden: What We Do ASHFORD BABY MEMORIAL GARDEN Many crematoria and cemeteries have special baby areas but often they are out of town and not easy to get to, and the baby areas themselves are sometimes quite a way from the car park, or bus stop.

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Finding local support for you,

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Skip to content

Menu

We have over 80 local branches delivering services locally across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

We are experiencing a high level of demand for our services at the moment, which unfortunately means our waiting lists are longer than usual. This may mean we take a few months to offer you local support.

Please bear with us whilst we try to meet this demand. If you are struggling in the meantime, please do call Samaritans on 116 123. Thank you for your understanding.

Find a list of local phone numbers.

About Cruse

We help people through one of the most painful times in life - with bereavement support, information and campaigning.

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Support in your area - Cruse Bereavement Support

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If you are struggling with a bereavement and need support, use our postcode search to find a Cruse Bereavement Support service near you.

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rranging a funeral for a child is something no-one can imagine having to do. And at a very emotional time, financial pressures in paying funeral expenses can add to the distress.

We, the Child Funeral Charity (CFC) assist families financially in England and Wales who have to arrange a funeral for a baby or child aged 16 or under. Whilst many funeral directors, the clergy and most celebrants do not charge fees, there are other funeral related expenses that bereaved parents struggle to find. Financial support is available from us to help with such funeral costs, together with practical advice and guidance.

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Arranging a funeral for a child is something no-one can imagine having to do. And at a very emotional time, financial pressures in paying funeral expenses can add to the distress.

We, the Child Funeral Charity (CFC) assist families financially in England and Wales who have to arrange a funeral for a baby or child aged 16 or under. Whilst many funeral directors, the clergy and most celebrants do not charge fees, there are other funeral related expenses that bereaved parents struggle to find. Financial support is available from us to help with such funeral costs, together with practical advice and guidance.

We are delighted that the government's Children's Funeral Fund came into effect on July 23 rd 2019 and we were pleased to help train the personnel involved in the operation of the Fund. Under the scheme the fees and expenses for burials and cremations are met largely by government funding. Details about the fund can be found here

To be eligible for the CFF, a child must be under 18 at the time of death or stillborn after the 24th week of pregnancy, and the burial or cremation must take place in England.

The Children's Funeral Fund is available to all families, regardless of income and is not means-tested.

Burial and Cremation authorities and funeral directors will claim the fees directly from the central fund.

Details of what can be claimed through the Children's Funeral Fund can be found here

We will continue to fund the elements of the funeral that are NOT covered by the new fund, such as flowers, orders of ceremony, plaques etc.
Please apply for our help using the CFC Application Form button on the right or below.

We take referrals and applications for financial support from professionals who have knowledge of the bereaved family and their circumstances. Therefore if you are a...

Funeral Director
Celebrant or faith representative
Bereavement Nurse or Midwife
Hospice Manager
General Practitioner
Local Authority Registrar
Hospital Bereavement Officer
Hospital Medical Registrar or other professional

...you can refer bereaved families to us. In order to provide financial support to as many bereaved families as possible, we are always fundraising.

If you would like to support our activities, please click here

'Trustees Anne Barber and Kevin and Mary Tomes, who took the charity to the 'Full Circle Festival' at Mortlake Crematorium on 29 th June.'

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Child Funeral Charity - Financial Support for Families

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Arranging a funeral for a child is something no-one can imagine having to do. And at a very emotional time, financial pressures in paying funeral expenses can add to the distress. We, the Child Funeral Charity (CFC) assist families financially in England and Wales who have to arrange a funeral for a baby or child aged 16 or under.

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The Childhood Bereavement Network (CBN) is a specialist membership organisation, working together to support bereaved children and young people. CBN is hosted by the National Children's Bureau, which offers organisational support to the Network. Although CBN has its own focus, advisory group and strategy, we work collaboratively across the childhood bereavement sector, and other partners, such as the National Children's Bureau, recognising the strength that comes from working together to improve children and young peoples' lives.

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Understanding the Child Death Review Process (CDR)

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Understanding the Child Death Review Process (CDR)

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This leaflet is for parents and carers of a child under 18 who has died. It tells you what happens in the child death review.

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Maternity & Newborn Safety Investigations (MNSI)

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Maternity & Newborn Safety Investigations (MNSI)

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This website helps to explain what to expect if you are asked to take part in an investigation about your maternity care.

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What we do

All NHS trusts are required to tell us about certain patient safety incidents that happen in maternity care. This is so that we can carry out an independent investigation and, where relevant, make safety recommendations to improve services at local level and across the whole maternity healthcare system in England. Throughout investigations we work closely with the families, NHS trusts and staff involved. We do not place blame on individuals or investigate individual members of NHS staff.

National learning report highlights risks associated with 'incomplete' maternal risk assessments

Risk assessments during the maternity care pathway

Maternity investigations programme to be hosted by Care Quality Commission

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All NHS trusts are required to tell us about certain patient safety incidents that happen in maternity care. This is so that we can carry out an independent investigation and, where relevant, make safety recommendations to improve services at local level and across the whole maternity healthcare system in England.

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This information explains what a hospital review is, why it's important and how reviews will be improved across the UK by the use of the new National Perinatal Mortality Review Tool (PMRT). This information is for parents whose baby has died before, during or up to four weeks after birth and where the baby has died having been cared for on a neonatal unit. We hope this information clearly explains what the National Perinatal Mortality Review Tool means for you and your family, why information about you is important to the review process and how this information is used and protected.

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Information for bereaved parents | PMRT | NPEU

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The National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit (NPEU) is a multidisciplinary research unit based at the University of Oxford. Our work involves running randomised controlled trials, national surveillance programmes and surveys, confidential enquiries, aetiological studies and a disease register. The results of our research sit at the nexus of public and population health sciences, clinical care and health policy development.

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A short video explaining duty of candour

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The vast majority of people who work in health and social care wish to provide the very best care they can. There is very rarely intent by staff to provide care that did not go as expected or planned.

When clinical incidents do occur, they can have a real and deep impact on peoples' lives. Regardless of the level of harm incurred, patients and families have a right to receive a meaningful apology and explanations for what happened as soon as possible.

We know this is not easy, but being open and transparent with patients when treatment or care goes wrong is always the right thing to do - this is often referred to as the 'Duty of Candour'.

Those working within healthcare may have heard of the terms statutory and professional duty of candour but may not be sure of the differences that exist between them. This uncertainty can result in the duty of candour not being fulfilled effectively.What is Professional Duty of Candour?

The professional duty of candour is a professional responsibility to be open and honest with patients and families when something that goes wrong with their treatment or care causes, or has the potential to cause, harm or distress. This includes saying sorry and taking action to put things right where possible. It is always the right thing to do and is not an admission of liability.

Regulators of specific healthcare professions oversee the professional duty of candour.

Failure to comply with the principles of the professional duty of candour can lead to disciplinary action being taken.

Fulfilling the professional duty of candour

As soon as you realise something has gone wrong with the care of a patient, you should speak to the patient or their family.

Where possible, speak to them face to face in a quiet, neutral space. If it is not possible to speak face to face, try and ascertain what their preferred approach would be, for example, a virtual meeting or a telephone call.

Ensure there is someone available to support them, such as a friend, relative or professional colleague.

Provide a true account of what has happened including what is known. Provide the opportunity for questions to be asked.

It is okay not to immediately know all the facts but you should be clear about what has and has not yet been established.

Saying sorry is crucial. You must apologise from the outset for the harm caused, regardless of the level of harm or fault. Saying sorry is always the right thing to do and is not an admission of liability.

Depending on the circumstances, it may be more appropriate to promptly escalate the situation to a senior member of your team or organisation and request they speak to the patient (or family) on your behalf.

Ensure the details of a single point of contact are provided. This should be someone who will be involved throughout the process and can regularly update the patient or family.

Irrespective of the level of harm incurred, you should document should document and report the incident through your organisations reporting process, and include the actions taken.

Those responsible for governance within your organisation can advise you if you are unsure whether the statutory duty of candour also applies.

What is the statutory duty of candour?

The statutory Duty of Candour is laid out in Regulation 20 of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014. It puts an overarching legal duty on health and social care providers to be open and transparent with people using services, and their families, in relation to their treatment or care. It is overseen by the Care Quality Commission or CQC.

As well as the overarching duty, regulation 20 also sets out some specific actions that providers must take when a notifiable safety incident occurs.

A 'Notifiable safety incident' is a specific term defined within the duty of candour regulation and should not be confused with other types of safety incidents or notifications.

A "notifiable safety incident" must meet all of the following specific criteria:

It must have been unintended or unexpected

It must have occurred during the provision of an activity the CQC regulates

In the reasonable opinion of a health care professional, the notifiable safety incident could, or already appears to have, resulted in death, or severe or moderate harm to the person receiving care. This includes prolonged psychological harm

The CQC expect to see organisations act promptly as soon as a notifiable safety incident has been discovered.

It is an offence for a CQC regulated organisation to fail to comply with the duty. Failure can result in enforcement activity ranging from warning or requirement notices to criminal prosecution.

Organisations must have clear policies and procedures in place and ensure staff understand their responsibilities. The CQC will also expect senior managers to demonstrate that they have a safe culture where staff feel able to speak up and are supported to carry out the duty of candour as appropriate .

Fulfilling the statutory duty of candour

When something qualifies as a "notifiable safety incident", the specific steps laid out in Regulation 20 must be carried out "as soon as reasonably practicable".

This means opening conversations with the "relevant person".

The 'relevant person' is defined in the regulation as either the person who was harmed or someone acting lawfully on their behalf

Someone may act on the behalf of the person who was harmed if the person:

has died

is under 16 and not competent to make decisions about their care or the consequences of the incident

is over 16 and lacking mental capacity. This is in accordance with the Mental Capacity Act 2005.

Regulation 20 states that organisations must:

Tell the relevant person, face-to-face, that a notifiable safety incident has taken place.

Say Sorry

Provide a true account of what happened, explaining whatever is known at that point.

Explain to the relevant person what further enquiries or investigations will take place

Follow up by providing this information, and the apology, in writing, and providing an update on any enquiries.

Keep a secure written record of all meetings and communications with the relevant person.

Key messages

Being open and transparent with patients and their families when treatment or care goes wrong is key to good duty of candour compliance.

Remember: Saying sorry is always the right thing to do and is not an admission of liability.

Always be compassionate towards the needs of the patient and their family.

Ensure conversations are bespoke to their needs, consider the sensitivities of the situation and always ensure that all communication is personalised and empathetic.

Following these points will help you effectively fulfil both the professional and statutory duties of candour.

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Duty of candour animation - NHS Resolution

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Being open and honest with patients and those close to them is always the right thing to do and is often referred to as the duty of candour.

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Healthwatch Kent is your local health and social care champion. If you use GPs and hospitals, dentists, pharmacies, care homes or other support services in your area, we want to hear about your experiences. We are independent and have the power to make sure NHS leaders and other decision makers listen to local feedback and improve standards of care. We can also help you to find reliable and trustworthy information and advice. Last year, the Healthwatch network helped nearly a million people like you to have your say and get the support you need.

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Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO)

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Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO)

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Welcome to the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman

We make final decisions on complaints that have not been resolved by the NHS in England and UK government departments and other public organisations. We do this fairly and without taking sides. Our service is free.

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Making a complaint | Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO)

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Please note it is taking us longer than usual to look into health complaints. This is because the organisations we investigate are facing increased demand for services and because we have more cases than usual to work through. We are sorry that it could take several months before we can look at your…

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AVMA - Action against medical accidents.

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AVMA - Action against medical accidents.

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AvMA has played a huge role in moving patient safety higher up the agenda, but so much more remains to be done. As the only UK patients’ charity specialising in patient safety we are determined to put patient safety at the top of everyone’s agenda by providing a well informed patient perspective and seeking improvements wherever we can.

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The cookie settings on this website are set to "allow cookies" to give you the best browsing experience possible. If you continue to use this website without changing your cookie settings or you click "Accept" below then you are consenting to this.

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The cookie settings on this website are set to "allow cookies" to give you the best browsing experience possible. If you continue to use this website without changing your cookie settings or you click "Accept" below then you are consenting to this.

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PALS - East Kent Hospitals University Foundation Trust (William Harvey and QEQM)

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PALS - East Kent Hospitals University Foundation Trust (William Harvey and QEQM)

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The Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) is here to provide help, information and non medical advice about your care and treatment. We can help you with queries, sending compliments or making a formal complaint.

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Please note the PALS team is experiencing high demands, which may cause delays in replying to queries. Please bear with us; we will respond to you as quickly as we can.
Our A&Es are very busy. While staff are doing their best to answer the phones, we encourage families to contact their loved one via their mobile phone for updates wherever possible.

The Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) is here to provide help, information and non medical advice about your care and treatment. We can help you with queries, sending compliments or making a formal complaint.

The quickest and easiest way to deal with queries in the first instance is to talk to a member of staff. If you are staying in the hospital, ask to speak to the Ward Manager or the Matron. If you are an Outpatient, ask at reception and they can find the right person for you to speak to.

They will be able to listen to your query and will try to help to resolve your issue.

If talking hasn't resolved the issue, then contact the Patient Advice & Liaison Service. We can:

Give you information about our hospital services and the choices available to you and your family, visitors and carers at each of our hospitals

Listen to your comments, compliments or concerns about the services provided in our hospital

Help you to resolve, as quickly as possible, any problems or issues that you have about our hospital services

Give you information about the formal complaints process and independent advocacy services.

Office opening hours:

Kent and Canterbury Hospital - Trust Offices:

William Harvey Hospital, Ashford:

QEQM Hospital, Margate:

More information on how to make a formal complaint

We're open Monday to Friday (apart from Bank holidays) from 9am to 4pm.

You may get an answering machine if the team is busy, or if the office is closed. Please leave a message and telephone number and we'll return your call as soon as possible, ideally within three working days.

If you do not receive a response please don't hesitate to phone. Because of the higher security applied to emails sent to NHS email addresses, we know that some emails get blocked by our server. Unfortunately we cannot prevent this, so get in touch if you think this may have happened to your email.

We welcome and value your comments, suggestions and concerns, as they help us continuously improve the quality of services we provide and the overall experience of you; our patients.

You should be treated with courtesy and respect at all times by NHS staff and making a comment or complaint about NHS services will not prejudice the care that you or your relatives are given.

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PALS | East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust

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Please note the PALS team is experiencing high demands, which may cause delays in replying to queries. Please bear with us; we will respond to you as quickly as we can. Our A&Es are very busy. While staff are doing their best to answer the phones, we encourage families to contact their loved one via their mobile phone for updates wherever possible.

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The Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) offers support, information and assistance to patients, relatives and visitors.

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The Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) offices at Tunbridge Wells and Maidstone hospitals are open to visitors from 11am to 3pm, Monday to Friday (excluding public and bank holidays).

No appointment is necessary, but if the team are already dealing with an enquirer when you arrive, you may be asked to wait.

Patients and relatives are still welcome to contact us by telephone on: 01892 632953 or 01622 224960. If there is no-one available to answer your call, please leave a message on our voicemail facility and we will contact you as soon as possible. Alternatively you can email us on mtw-tr.palsoffice@nhs.net.

If it matters to you, it matters to us...

The Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) offers support, information and assistance to patients, relatives and visitors. PALS can:

help answer any questions you may have about Trust services

provide information on Trust services

record and pass on your comments and compliments

help resolve any concerns you have about the services provided at our hospitals

signpost you to our formal complaints process

help you access leaflets in other formats (e.g. Braille, large print, easy read, other languages)

You can also read our Patient Information Leaflet on PALS.

Unfortunately, PALS cannot give out clinical advice (including test results). If you need clinical advice, we would encourage you to contact your GP or NHS 111 in the first instance.

We have offices located at Maidstone Hospital and Tunbridge Wells Hospital, Pembury. Staff in either hospital can help you, regardless of which hospital you are calling about.

Maidstone Hospital

Tunbridge Wells Hospital

You can also write to us at: PALS Team Leader Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust, Maidstone Hospital, Hermitage Lane, Kent, ME16 9QQ

Patient transport complaints

From 1 July 2016, the patient transport service for patients attending Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells Hospital has been provided by G4S. We hope that they provide you with a high standard of service, but if you have any concerns or complaints about their service, please contact them directly at: Telephone: 0800 096 0211 email: km.pts1@nhs.net, or, by post, Kent and Medway PTS Contract, Swift House, 18 Hoffmanns Way, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1GU. Feedback can also be given online at www.km-pts.co.uk

Frequently asked questions

Your common questions answered:

How can I obtain a copy of my / my relative's hospital notes (health records)?

Can my appointment be brought forwards?

Can my admission date be brought forwards?

My last admission to hospital was cancelled. Can you guarantee it won't happen again?

Some items of property went missing during my recent admission. Will you reimburse me?

I'm a Blue Badge holder. Why am I being charged for parking?

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Patient Advice & Liaison Service (PALS) - Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust

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The Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) offices at Tunbridge Wells and Maidstone hospitals are open to visitors from 11am to 3pm, Monday to Friday (excluding public and bank holidays). No appointment is necessary, but if the team are already dealing with an enquirer when you arrive, you may be asked to wait.

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The Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) are here to help you to sort out any problems or concerns you may have about hospital services, particularly if you have been unable to resolve them by speaking to the staff caring for you on the ward or in the outpatient clinic.

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Patient Advice & Liaison Service (PALS) for Compliments, Comments and Concerns

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If you have any comments, complaints or queries about your care at Medway Maritime Hospital, contact the

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The Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) is a confidential service for people who would like information, help or who wish to comment about any aspect of the services provided at the hospital. The PALS officer provides the opportunity for you to raise in confidence any issues and comments that you have about the care and service you receive from staff. PALS help the hospital to improve its services for patients.

PALS offers support, information and help to patients, their families and visitors. They can help you to sort out your issues by speaking on your behalf to anyone involved in your care, or the care of your relative or friend.

PALS will not speak to anyone about your concerns unless they have your permission to do so.

The service offered by PALS is informal, impartial and confidential.

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Unfortunately our PALS and Complaints teams are experiencing delays in answering and responding to your phone calls and emails at this time. We are working hard to rectify the situation as we appreciate the additional distress this will cause. We have provided additional sign-posting that we hope you will find helpful for your concern otherwise please be advised that an added delay in our response time, for new queries, will be experienced. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

Assistance in respect of a patient who is currently in our care

In the first instance, please contact the ward itself via the hospital switchboard on 01322 428100, and ask to speak with the nurse in charge (ward contact numbers can also be found on our website under the Services tab). It may also be helpful to request to speak to the Matron for that area, who will also be able to support you with your enquiry, and help to prevent unnecessary delays.

Results

Please note that PALS is not a clinical service, and as such, we cannot provide medical advice, information or results - for this you would need to speak with the referring clinician, or with the Consultant responsible for your care.

Waiting Times

We thank you for your patience during this challenging time, please be assured that patients will be booked in line with clinical requirements and in chronological order. We are working hard to return to normal, and are commencing a staggered restart for surgical operations. You will be contacted when there is a planned date for your surgery. Current waiting times for routine surgery can be found here https://www.dgt.nhs.uk/services/a-z-services/theatre-scheduling
Please note that PALS officers are unable to bring forward appointment or surgery dates.
Medical Records

If you would like information on how to request a copy of your medical records, please contact our Health Records Department on 01322 428099 or by email at dgn-tr.sarsrequests@nhs.net

The Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) is a confidential service for people who would like information, help or who wish to comment about any aspect of the services provided at the hospital. The PALS officer provides the opportunity for you to raise in confidence any issues and comments that you have about the care and service you receive from staff. PALS help the hospital to improve its services for patients.

PALS offers support, information and help to patients, their families and visitors. They can help you to sort out your issues by speaking on your behalf to anyone involved in your care, or the care of your relative or friend.

PALS will not speak to anyone about your concerns unless they have your permission to do so.

The service offered by PALS is informal, impartial and confidential.

What will PALS do?

PALS will:

Act as a listener to help resolve issues that are concerning you

Provide advice and information to help you access other NHS and Local services

Advise and support you, your family, visitors and carers

Listen to your suggestions, queries and concerns

Help sort out problems on your behalf

Provide advice on how to make a formal complaint

We can also advise you if you would like to become more directly involved in improving your hospital.

Who can use PALS?

Patients, carers relatives, visitors, NHS staff and community organisations

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I obtain a copy of my / my relative's hospital records?

Details on how to access medical records are available HERE. You can also contact the Health Records Team on 01322 425381 or email dgn-tr.healthcarerequests@nhs.net

How can I cancel or re-arrange an appointment?

Most appointments can be changed or cancelled by calling the Outpatients Appointments Department on 01322 428350, Monday to Friday, 08:30 to 17.00, however please refer to your appointment letter first for contact details. You can also change or cancel your appointment by completing our online form PALS do not have the facility to cancel or change appointment dates.

Can my admission date be brought forward?

Planned or elective admissions are arranged in accordance with clinical need. If your condition has significantly changed since you were placed on the waiting list or since you were last seen in clinic, you should contact your GP who can reassess the clinical urgency and let our specialists know.

What do I do if I need to cancel or change my operation date?

Any queries relating to admission dates should be directed to the Theatre Scheduling Team. Please contact the main hospital switchboard on 01322 428100 and ask to speak to the speciality team within Theatre Scheduling (i.e. Urology, Gynaecology). Unfortunately, PALS cannot arrange or change admission dates. You can also complete an online cancellation form available HERE.

My last admission to hospital was cancelled. Can you guarantee it won't happen again?

Unfortunately, we can never offer such a guarantee, due to the unpredictable nature of the hospital environment. Our hospital has a busy emergency department which means we cannot always be certain of the number of patients who may need to be admitted as an emergency. We monitor our bed situation extremely closely and will do all we can to honour admission arrangements. However, patient safety is our priority and cannot be compromised.

How do I make a complaint?

PALS will do all they can to help address concerns that do not need a full investigation or a written response. However, if you wish to make a formal complaint please write to the Complaints Department, Dartford & Gravesham NHS Trust, Darent Valley Hospital, Darenth Wood Road, Dartford DA2 8DA or email dgn-tr.complaints-dvh@nhs.net

How do I make a complaint about the Patient Transport (G4S)

Complaints or compliments regarding patient transport should be directed to 0800 096 0211, km.pts1@nhs.net, or by post at Kent and Medway PTS Contract, Swift House, 18 Hoffmanns Way, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1GU. Feedback can also be given online at w ww.km-pts.co.uk.

Some items of property went missing during my recent stay, can you help to find my lost property?

We discourage patients from bringing valuable items in to hospital with them, to reduce the risk of items being lost or damaged. However, we realise that some items are essential, such as glasses, dentures and hearing aids. If you have any of these items with you, please make sure that the nursing team are aware. Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust is unable to accept responsibility or any liability for damages suffered or any loss, however caused to personal property whilst on our premises. However, the PALS team will do their best to locate any lost property by liaising with the relevant wards/departments. Any decision to reimburse will be taken by senior staff responsible for the ward or department concerned. Please complete the attached Report of Loss Form and return it to the PALS team at the main hospital address.

Reporting a Loss / Theft / Damage

Please complete this form to report a loss / theft / damage to property occurring on the premises of Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust.

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Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)

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Unfortunately our PALS and Complaints teams are experiencing delays in answering and responding to your phone calls and emails at this time. We are working hard to rectify the situation as we appreciate the additional distress this will cause.

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PALS - Patient Advice and Liaison Service

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PALS - Patient Advice and Liaison Service

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The Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) offers confidential advice, support and information on health-related matters.

They provide a point of contact for patients, their families and their carers.

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What is PALS (Patient Advice and Liaison Service)?

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Find out more about the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS), which offers confidential advice, support and information on health-related matters.

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PANDAS is a charity with a mission: ‘To be the UK’s most recognised and trusted support service for families and their networks who may be suffering with perinatal mental illness, including prenatal (antenatal) and postnatal depression.’

Our aim is to make sure no parent, family or carer feels alone. We have a variety of support services available to ensure help is delivered in a way that is right for you. No one suffering any form of mental illness should feel they’re on their own.

We offer motivational, educational and positive content through our social media channels, which adds to our value for the parents who need our help the most.

PANDAS Foundation values difference and diversity and does not discriminate on the grounds of age, gender, sexual preference, orientation, marital status, race, religion, colour, national origin, disability, heritage or political belief.

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Birth trauma might be due to one single event, or a mixture of experiences in pregnancy, during birth or after birth. It can be experienced after a physically or mentally exhausting birth, and can also be associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

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Postnatal depression and perinatal mental health

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Postnatal depression and perinatal mental health

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Explains postnatal depression and other perinatal mental health problems, including possible causes, treatments and support options. Also has information for friends and family, including support and advice for partners.

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Tell us more

What do you want to tell us about?

Note:

Please don't include personal details like your name or email address. If you do, data protection law means we'll have to delete your comments.

Unfortunately we can't reply to this. If you want a response from us, see our Contact us page.

If you are in crisis right now and want to talk to someone urgently then you could call Samaritans on 116 123 (freephone). Our pages on crisis services have more options.

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Tell us more What do you want to tell us about? Note: Please don't include personal details like your name or email address. If you do, data protection law means we'll have to delete your comments. Unfortunately we can't reply to this. If you want a response from us, see our Contact us page.

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Child Bereavement UK helps families to rebuild their lives when a child grieves or when a child dies. We support children and young people (up to the age of 25) when someone important to them has died or is not expected to live, and parents and the wider family when a baby or child of any age dies or is dying.

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charity bereavement child death grief loss baby stillbirth miscarriage suicide young people

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We help children, young people, parents, and families to rebuild their lives when a child grieves or when a child dies.

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The concept for ‘Make Birth Better’ began from a post on Instagram that explained the difference between Postnatal Depression and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. The response to this post was overwhelming; the lasting imprint of birth trauma and the need to improve help, support and understanding could not have been clearer.

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The concept for 'Make Birth Better' began from a post on Instagram that explained the difference between Postnatal Depression and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. The response to this post was overwhelming; the lasting imprint of birth trauma and the need to improve help, support and understanding could not have been clearer.

Founded in 2018 by Dr Rebecca Moore and Dr Emma Svanberg, Make Birth Better aims to raise awareness of the impact of birth trauma, offers support to parents, families and professionals who have gone through trauma, provides training to those working with parents, and aids others in vital research, all with the primary aim of 'making birth better'.

Pregnancy and birth are expected to be a positive and happy experience. Unfortunately though, this isn't always the case for a variety of reasons. Birth trauma alone affects at least 1 in 4 women and 1 in 25 of these women will develop PTSD.

Birth trauma includes any traumatic experiences (feeling afraid/out of control/helpless) during conception, pregnancy and beyond and can affect parents, birth partners, professionals, family and friends. The deep and profound impact of a traumatic birth is not something that can be easily forgotten. It is however treatable, and it can be preventable.

Responses to a traumatic event are individual but may include avoiding reminders of the trauma, changes in mood, flashbacks, nightmares or intrusive thoughts. Even if you're on the mild to moderate end of the trauma scale, it can still be life altering.

Trauma is also not exclusive to those experiencing the event. Vicarious trauma can occur when witnessing a traumatic experience, especially when you witness or experience multiple difficult events. Dads, partners, professionals and birthing partners can all suffer vicarious trauma.

Make Birth Better offer advice and support for parents and professionals and have put together a 15 minute video to introduce you to the key facts about birth trauma and vicarious trauma: "Birth Trauma 101".

How can peer support help?

The evidence that peer support offers a unique and invaluable contribution to achieving healthier pregnancies, better births and happier babies is overwhelming. Quality peer support can nurture the confidence of parents to develop their resilience, knowledge and skills to give their babies the best possible start in life, leading to better outcomes for both parents and babies.

Peer supporters try to engage as early as possible in pregnancy and can help parents to communicate their worries or needs. They often translate medical jargon and explain processes and options to parents. They are there to help parents to prepare before the birth and can be alongside them to reassure and ensure they are not alone during the birth. After the birth they can then be there to listen and provide practical support.

Difficult experiences during pregnancy and birth do not need to result in trauma. According to the Birth Trauma Association poor communication between professionals and parents can be a major factor in birth trauma:

"The vast majority of women suffering postnatal PTSD tell us that the way they were treated in hospital has been a major factor in developing the condition. Often communication was poor, so when they tried to voice a concern, they were ignored. Sometimes, they've been kept in the dark as to what is happening, leading to them feeling frightened that they or their baby are about to die. Procedures such as internal examination have been performed on them without their consent. They have been laughed at or told to stop making a fuss. One of our members tells us that a midwife asked her husband: "Is she always this much of a drama queen?"

Many parents ask their peer supporter to be present at medical appointments and at the birth. They can help to bridge the gap between professional and parent, improving two-way communication, which can be particularly useful if there are language barriers. It can help parents to feel more involved in the process and more in control.

The unique, trusting relationship between peer supporter and parent can help mums, dads, birthing people and partners to talk about and process their trauma, overcome fear associated with a previous traumatic birth or even prevent trauma from occurring. Peer supporters are also able to signpost parents to other organisations if they need further support.

The lived experience of a peer supporter is also incredibly important. They are not professionals, but parents who have been there themselves. Hearing other's birth stories or experiences can normalise your own and knowing that others have come through this journey and healed not only creates hope, but can help you to talk about and process your own experiences. Kindness, empathy and feeling that someone is 'in your corner' really can make all the difference.

Make Birth Better feel that it's vital that peer supporters providing any kind of perinatal support have the skills and knowledge to support those affected by birth trauma, and include the role of peer supporters in the 'Treatment, support & healing' module of their training. There is also a comprehensive library of resources available on their website.

For more information about how a traumatic birth can affect parents, please visit the Make Birth Better website. If you are concerned you, or someone you know, may be experiencing birth trauma, please speak to someone you trust and seek help asap.

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Make Birth Better: Birth trauma - Parents 1st

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Learn how to develop a perinatal volunteer peer support initiative and the benefits it provides, connect with others and download free guidance and resources

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Kent and Medway ICB - How to make a complaint

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Kent and Medway ICB - How to make a complaint

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Anyone can make a comment or seek assistance to NHS Kent and Medway Integrated Care Board (ICB) via our Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALs) and Complaints Team. The ICB will respond where possibl

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Comments, Assistance, Compliments and complaints

Comments/Assistance

Anyone can make a comment or seek assistance to NHS Kent and Medway Integrated Care Board (ICB) via our Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALs) and Complaints Team. The ICB will respond where possible.

Compliments

NHS Kent and Medway ICB welcomes positive feedback and compliments, which can be made via our PALs and Complaints Team.

Making a complaint

Making a complaint is one way that helps organisations to learn lessons from any mistakes, preventing them from happening to anyone else and to improve services. There are only two stages to the NHS Complaints Process 'Local Resolution' and Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO).

Please Note - Complaints about Primary Care (GP, Dental, Optometry, Pharmacy) services within Kent and Medway should be made direct to the service you are complaining about OR to the South East Complaints Hub, by:
Email: Frimleyicb.southeastcomplaints@nhs.net

Telephone: 03005610290

Post: South East Complaints Hub, NHS Frimley ICB

Aldershot Centre for Health
Hospital Hill
Aldershot
Hampshire
GU11 1AY

Further information can be seen in the 'How to complain about how about other NHS Services' section below.

How can I make a complaint?

You can make a complaint in writing, by email, or if you are unable to do this, over the telephone. You should make your complaint as soon as possible; this should be within a year of the event. You can make a complaint on your own or on behalf of someone else if you have their permission.

Who can make a complaint?

A complaint may be made by a person who:

Receives or has received services

Is affected, or likely to be affected, by the action, omission or decision of the responsible body which is the subject of the complaint

A complaint may be made by a person acting on behalf of someone who:

Has died

Is a child

Has physical incapacity or

Lacks capacity within the meaning of the Mental Capacity Act 2005, or

Has requested the representative to act on their behalf; e.g. a friend/relative. Advocate or formal complaints raised by Members of Parliament on behalf of their constituents

Please contact our communications team if you need this information in another language or format.

When to make a complaint

Please make your complaint as soon as possible, while memories are still fresh. Usually, the NHS deals with complaints made within one year of the event that you are complaining about, or within one year of finding out you have cause to complain. This time limit may be waived if there are good reasons why you were not able to complain earlier, and an effective investigation can still be carried out.
What to include when making a complaint:

your name, address, email and phone number

the full name, address, email and phone number of the patient concerned (if that is not you) and their written permission (a signature on the letter is enough),

a summary of what happened with dates, if possible,

a list of the questions you would like answered,

what you want to happen as a result of your complaint,

permission for us to copy the complaint to the people who need to take part in the investigation.

Who should I contact with my complaint about commissioning of NHS services?

Complaints about the commissioning of NHS services within NHS Kent and Medway

NHS Kent and Medway ICB investigates and responds to complaints about the actions/decisions of the ICB. If you would like to send us a compliment, comment or complaint about the actions/decisions of NHS Kent and Medway ICB, please contact:

By email: The PALs and Complaints Team - kmicb.complaints@nhs.net​​​​​

By Telephone: 01634 335095 - Option 7 (Office Hours are between 8:00am - 4:00pm)

By address: NHS Kent and Medway Integrated Care Board

PALs and Complaints Team

Gail House

Lower Stone Street

Maidstone

Kent ME15 6NB

The ICB have adopted new ways of working arrangements following the Covid19 pandemic, which means that many of our staff do not come into the office every day. Whilst you can of course telephone or write to us, it would be preferable if you could contact us via email to ensure a timely response.
The services we commission include:

urgent and emergency care (including 111, A&E and ambulance services)

out-of-hours primary medical services

elective hospital care (outpatient appointments and operations)

community health services (such as community nursing, rehabilitation services, speech and language therapy, continence services, wheelchair services, and home oxygen services)

maternity and new-born services (excluding neonatal intensive care)

children's healthcare services (mental and physical health)

services for people with learning disabilities

mental health services (including psychological therapies)

fertility services

Please contact our communications team if you need this information in another language or format.

Who will deal with my ICB related complaint?

Our PALs and Complaints Team will manage your complaint, which will be investigated by an appropriate manager/staff member within the ICB.

We will acknowledge your complaint within three working days of receipt.

Once consent (if required) is received, the ICB will work with you to investigate your ICB related complaint and aim to provide you with a written response within 30 working days.

Complaints that are more complex may take longer for the ICB to be able to respond to you. If we think a response will take longer, we will advise you as soon as possible.

We will keep you updated if there are any delays during the complaints process.

This process may involve:

Liaising with other relevant organisations or accessing your records (with your consent) so we can view relevant information,

using your information for other purposes, such as monitoring the complaints process or improving service quality. Where possible, only anonymous information will be used. If identifiable data is needed for other purposes, then we will ask your consent first.

What happens next?

We will deal with complaints in a manner that is proportional to the issues raised. Where appropriate, we will take action to prevent the incident from happening again.

When the investigation is complete, you will be written to with the outcome, including any improvements that have been, or will be made as a result of your complaint.

If you are unhappy with the response to your complaint, you should contact the PALs and Complaints Team to see if the ICB can look into the case further, unless the response advises that local resolution of your complaint is concluded.

If you remain unhappy once local resolution of your complaint is concluded, you can ask the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman to review your complaint:

The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman
Millbank Tower
Millbank
SW1P 4QP
0345 015 4033
phso.enquiries@ombudsman.org.uk
www.ombudsman.org.uk

Will my complaint remain confidential?

We will respect your right to confidentiality and treat any information you provide in strict confidence, handling this information in a safe and secure manner. However, there may be times when we need to share information without your consent, for example to protect children and vulnerable adults. You can withdraw your complaint at any stage of the process.
Depending on the nature of your complaint, we may also need to share your information with other NHS providers of care. Your consent will be sought if that is the case.
NHS Kent and Medway ICB will retain personal information for the purpose of this complaint investigation only. In order for the ICB to make improvements to the services you receive, anonymous information about your complaint may be shared as part of our reporting process.

Comments or complaints about other NHS services

Comments or Complaints about Hospitals, Mental Health, Community and other services Complaints about Primary Care Services - General Practitioner (GP), Dentist, Pharmacist or Optometrist
Whilst a complaint about a provider service can be raised with the ICB, it is recommended that you should make your complaint to the provider of the service you are complaining about. Should you wish the ICB to be aware of your complaint please send a copy of your complaint to the ICB's PALS and Complaints Team; however, the responsibility for investigating and responding to the issues remains with the service complained about.If you do raise your complaint about a provider service with the ICB we will provide the contact details for you to contact the provider and/or seek your consent to share the complaint with the provider. In some instances, the ICB might be best placed to handle your complaint about the provider service. If that is the case, we will let you know and seek consent to liaise with the provider.

From 1 July 2023 the way members of the public make a complaint about primary care services to the commissioner changed.

There are two ways you can make a complaint:

You can complain to the healthcare provider: this is the organisation where you received the NHS service, for example a GP surgery or dental surgery.

You can complain to the commissioner of the service: this is the organisation that paid for the service or care you received. NHS Kent and Medway ICB will signpost you to the provider of the service or can redirect to that service with your consent. We will let you know if we consider the ICB is best placed to handle the complaint and seek consent to liaise with the provider.

After 1 July 2023 if you want to make a complaint about primary care services to the commissioner you will now contact the relevant Integrated Care Board (ICB) instead of NHS England.

It has been agreed that NHS Frimley ICB will host the South East Complaints Hub to manage complaints on behalf of the six ICBs within the Southeast Region. Therefore, for NHS Kent and Medway ICB, you can raise Primary Care Complaints by:

Email: Frimleyicb.southeastcomplaints@nhs.net

Telephone: 03005610290

Writing to us at:

South East Complaints Hub

NHS Frimley ICB

Aldershot Centre for Health
Hospital Hill
Aldershot
Hampshire
GU11 1AY

If you want to make a complaint directly to the provider of the primary care service, you still can - that did not change on 1 July 2023.

Members of the public with ongoing complaints received on/after 1 July 2022 will receive a letter from NHS England informing them that the ICB is now handling their complaint with confirmation of their case handler. For Kent and Medway, this will be handled by the South East Complaint Hub on behalf of NHS Kent and Medway ICB.

Members of the public with any ongoing complaints received before 1 July 2022 will receive a letter from NHS England informing them that their complaint is being retained by NHS England with confirmation of their case handler.
For information and comments about retained services commissioned directly by NHS England, please visit their website.
If you have any queries, please contact the South East Complaints Hub via the contact details above.

Whilst not exhaustive, the following is a list of services that NHS England central complaints team will retain the handling of after 1 July 2023.

Specialised Commissioning

Health and Justice - for health services for people in prisons and other custodial settings

Armed Forces Health

Section 7a (Public Health Immunisations and Vaccinations)

PCSE

Services delivered nationally by NHSE to patients/public (such as Screening Call and Recall, NHS App etc)

Can I get help and support with making my complaint?

Yes. If you would like some independent help or support with your NHS related complaint, The Advocacy People are a free complaints advocacy service available for you to use. The Advocacy People can represent your views when you are making a complaint about the ICB. They can help you write your complaint letter or write it on your behalf. They can accompany you to any meetings to discuss your complaint and provide support or provide an interpreter. The Advocacy People can help if you have difficulties with reading or writing. The Advocacy People can be contacted via:

The Advocacy People

PO Box 375

Hastings

East Sussex

TN34 9HU

Tel: 0330 440 9000

Email: info@theadvocacypeople.org.uk

Website: www.theadvocacypeople.org.uk.

Using The Advocacy People will not affect or change the way in which the ICB will respond or deal with your complaint.

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Comments/Assistance Anyone can make a comment or seek assistance to NHS Kent and Medway Integrated Care Board (ICB) via our Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALs) and Complaints Team. The ICB will respond where possible. Compliments NHS Kent and Medway ICB welcomes positive feedback and compliments, which can be made via our PALs and Complaints Team.

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Information and support to help you and your family access the right treatment for PP. Find out how health services and APP can help you now and in the future.

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Postpartum psychosis (PP) is a severe but treatable form of mental illness. It begins suddenly in the days and weeks after having a baby. Symptoms include hallucinations and delusions, often with mania, depression or confusion. It can get worse very quickly and should always be treated as a medical emergency.

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Postpartum psychosis (PP) is a severe but treatable form of mental illness. It begins suddenly in the days and weeks after having a baby. Symptoms include hallucinations and delusions, often with mania, depression or confusion. It can get worse very quickly and should always be treated as a medical emergency.

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Thrive - Psychological Support for Birth Trauma and Loss

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Thrive - Psychological Support for Birth Trauma and Loss

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If someone is experiencing mental health difficulties as a result of birth trauma and/or birth loss, but has not received any help to date, there are a wide range of services that can provide therapies, support and advice to people and their families. These include IAPT (talking therapies) services, Kent NHS Psychosexual Therapy Service and East Kent Hospital Women’s Counselling Services. If you have already received care and treatment from the above services but you need additional treatment then a referral to the new NHS service ‘Thrive’ may be considered.

Thrive is an inclusive, multi professional service, offering assessment and short-term interventions to those experiencing moderate/severe mental health difficulties; specifically psychological trauma, as a result of or having been triggered by the perinatal context such as birth trauma and/or birth loss.  The trauma may have occurred at any point in time and may not necessarily be recent.

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Thrive only accepts referrals from health or social care professionals who are directly involved in a person's care - for example, a Midwife, Obstetrician, GP, Counsellor, or Therapist.

Please note that we are not able to accept self-referrals.
Before Making a Referral
A consultation with a Thrive team member must take place before submitting a referral. Regular consultation slots are available.

To arrange a consultation, please contact us:

📧 Email: kmpt.thrivemhsupport@nhs.net

📞 Call: 01227 768928 option 2

Referrals may not be accepted without this initial consultation, so please get in touch before completing the referral form.
Important Information

Consent from the individual being referred is required before making a referral.

Thrive is not a crisis or emergency service and operates Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm.

Please review the eligibility criteria and complete the referral form after your consultation with the team.

Complex Mental Health Needs
If the person being referred is experiencing complex or ongoing mental health difficulties, they must already be receiving care coordination from a secondary mental health team (e.g., a Community Mental Health Team/CMHT or Mental Health Together+).

In these cases, Thrive may offer a specialist assessment, but ongoing psychological support would typically be provided through existing secondary care services.

We're also happy to offer specialist consultation and advice to CMHTs/MHT+. Please don't hesitate to get in touch if your team would benefit from this.

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Thrive - Psychological Support for Birth Trauma and Loss

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THRIVE - Psychological Support for Birth Trauma and Perinatal Loss

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THRIVE - Psychological Support for Birth Trauma and Perinatal Loss

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If someone is experiencing mental health difficulties as a result of birth trauma and/or birth loss, but has not received any help to date, there are a wide range of services that can provide therapies, support and advice to people and their families. These include IAPT (talking therapies) services, Kent NHS Psychosexual Therapy Service and East Kent Hospital Women’s Counselling Services. If you have already received care and treatment from the above services but you need additional treatment then a referral to the new NHS service ‘Thrive’ may be considered.

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Thrive only accepts referrals from health or social care professionals who are directly involved in a person's care - for example, a Midwife, Obstetrician, GP, Counsellor, or Therapist.

Please note that we are not able to accept self-referrals.
Before Making a Referral
A consultation with a Thrive team member must take place before submitting a referral. Regular consultation slots are available.

To arrange a consultation, please contact us:

📧 Email: kmpt.thrivemhsupport@nhs.net

📞 Call: 01227 768928 option 2

Referrals may not be accepted without this initial consultation, so please get in touch before completing the referral form.
Important Information

Consent from the individual being referred is required before making a referral.

Thrive is not a crisis or emergency service and operates Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm.

Please review the eligibility criteria and complete the referral form after your consultation with the team.

Complex Mental Health Needs
If the person being referred is experiencing complex or ongoing mental health difficulties, they must already be receiving care coordination from a secondary mental health team (e.g., a Community Mental Health Team/CMHT or Mental Health Together+).

In these cases, Thrive may offer a specialist assessment, but ongoing psychological support would typically be provided through existing secondary care services.

We're also happy to offer specialist consultation and advice to CMHTs/MHT+. Please don't hesitate to get in touch if your team would benefit from this.

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Thrive - Psychological Support for Birth Trauma and Loss

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Mental health issues and support in Kent and Medway

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Mental health issues and support in Kent and Medway

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Having a baby and becoming a parent is one of the most life-changing events we can experience. One in five women will experience a mental health problem during pregnancy or in the year after giving birth. This may be a new mental health problem or another episode of a mental health problem you’ve experienced before.

Our teams of specialist mental health midwives help hundreds of women and families each year to get the support they need.

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Kent and Medway - Bump, Birth and Beyond

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Mental health issues and support :: Kent and Medway - Bump, Birth and Beyond

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Having a baby and becoming a parent is one of the most life-changing events we can experience. One in five women will experience a mental health problem during pregnancy or in the year after giving birth. This may be a new mental health problem or another episode of a mental health problem you’ve experienced before.

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Perinatal Mental Health community Service East Kent (mother and infant)

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Perinatal Mental Health community Service East Kent (mother and infant)

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The Perinatal Mental Health Community Service specialises in the assessment, diagnosis and short-term care and treatment of women 18 and above who are affected by a moderate to severe perinatal mental health illness in the preconception, antenatal and postnatal period.

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Mother and Infant Mental Health Service (MIMHS) East Kent

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The Perinatal Mental Health Community Service (PMHCS) East Kent specialises in the assessment, diagnosis and short-term treatment of women 18 and above who are affected by a moderate to severe mental health illness in the preconception, antenatal and postnatal period.

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NHS Kent and Medway Social Care Partnership

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NHS Kent and Medway Social Care Partnership

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Information to help if you need help in a mental health crisis or emergency.

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Need help in a mental health crisis or emergency?

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Contacts for KMPT patients, non-patients and emergencies.

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Welcome to Everyturn Talking Therapies, your local NHS talking therapies service. Our service is free and we're ready to support you.

The quickest way to get matched with a therapist is to chat with the Limbic Referral Assistant. If you prefer to arrange a self-referral over the phone, you can request a callback by filling in a basic form

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Our Kent counselling and talking therapies service is free and available to anyone aged 17.5+ and registered with a GP in East Kent, Dartford, Gravesham, Swanley, or Swale.

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We offer a range of counselling and talking therapies in Kent to all aged 17+ registered with the GP in the area. Find out more how we can help you.

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Kent and Medway Mental Health services and support

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Kent and Medway Mental Health services and support

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In partnership with the NHS, we offer Talking Therapies to adults 16-years and over, who are registered with a GP in Dartford, Gravesham, Swanley & Swale.

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Kent and Medway Mental Health Services & Support | Vita Health Group

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Vita Health Group’s NHS mental health services and support stretches across Kent and Medway, Dartford, Gravesham, Swanley & Swale

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Porchlight - Mental health and wellbeing support for people in Kent

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Porchlight - Mental health and wellbeing support for people in Kent

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We offer free support with mental health and wellbeing for people anywhere in Kent.

You might be struggling with anxiety or depression, experiencing stress, feeling hopeless, isolated or overwhelmed. Whatever you’re facing, we are here to listen to you.

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We offer free support with mental health and wellbeing for people anywhere in Kent.

You might be struggling with anxiety or depression, experiencing stress, feeling hopeless, isolated or overwhelmed. Whatever you're facing, we are here to listen to you.

Worried about someone? Call our free helpline on 0800 567 7699 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm) or tell us online.

Need to get help for yourself today? Call our free helpline on 0800 567 7699 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm).

What we offer

Our range of services include support to help you:

Feel more in control of your mental health

Feel more confident in yourself or with your relationships

Connect you with free talking therapies near you, such as counselling

Find work, volunteering, or education

Access support with drug or alcohol dependency

Learn coping strategies by connecting you with therapy services and peer support near you

Find out about wellbeing and physical health activities near you such as arts and crafts, yoga and keep fit.

How we work with you

We understand it can be very difficult to take the first step to reach out for help. When you're ready, we will be here.

Our helpline advisors will listen and won't make judgements. They can help you understand your options and guide you through the process of getting the help you need.

Live Well Kent is our largest mental health service, offering free help to anyone who lives in Kent. We also have a range of other mental health services available depending on your needs.

All our services are running and have been adapted to reflect the latest government coronavirus safety guidelines. Once you're referred to one of our mental health services, our staff will work with you in the safest way that works best for you.

We offer emotional support and practical help. This includes being able to liaise with your GP or other health professionals also involved in your support if you wish.

We can also help with things that may be adding to the pressure you're under, such as housing problems, work, or money.

We offer a range of services, including:

Live Well Kent & Medway can help with your mental health and wellbeing

Are your feelings or worries impacting on your relationships, work or life generally?

Live Well Kent & Medway can help you improve your mental health and wellbeing. This could be through support with with feelings such as anxiety, depression or loneliness or with practical things like work, finance and housing.

It is a free service for anyone in Kent or Medway over 17. Once you request a referral to Live Well Kent & Medway we aim to contact you within two days and refer you for support within 7 days.

Call us free on 0800 567 7699 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm) or click here to find out more.

BeYou service for LGBTQ+ young people

The BeYou Project offers a safe, welcoming and non-judgemental space where young LGBTQ+ people who are 25 or under can meet to socialise, have fun and help each other. This includes regular meet-ups across Kent as well as one-to-one support.

There is also a BeYou website with lots of free resources and advice.

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to call the free Porchlight number - 0800 567 7699 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm) - for a chat.

Visit The BeYou Project website.

Young people and family services

We work with young people and their families to help them stay safe and manage any difficulties they might be facing.

The local community can be a vital support network for people of any age. Helping young people connect more closely to theirs is a big part of what we do.

Find out more

If you're in emotional distress and need urgent help

Life can get tough sometimes, but talking can help. The Release the Pressure team in Kent is available 24/7. They provide urgent support with trained counsellors who will listen, no matter what you are going through. You can text the word KENT to 85258 or call 0800 107 0160

You can also webchat with Mental Health Matters, an independent charity, who are available 24/7.

Real life stories

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Mental health, physical health, wellbeing | Porchlight

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We offer free support with mental health and wellbeing for people anywhere in Kent. You might be struggling with anxiety or depression, experiencing stress, feeling hopeless, isolated or overwhelmed. Whatever you're facing, we are here to listen to you. Worried about someone?

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Perinatal Mental Health Community Service (PMHCS) - Kent and Medway

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Perinatal Mental Health Community Service (PMHCS) - Kent and Medway

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The Perinatal Mental Health Community Service (PMHCS) specialises in the assessment, diagnosis and short-term treatment of women 18 and above who are affected by a moderate to severe perinatal mental health illness in the preconception, antenatal and postnatal period

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The Perinatal Mental Health Community Service (PMHCS) specialises in the assessment, diagnosis and short-term treatment of women 18 and above who are affected by a moderate to severe perinatal mental health illness in the preconception, antenatal and postnatal period

We are a multi-professional team consisting of consultant perinatal psychiatrists, registered mental health nurses, psychologists, therapists and assistant psychologists, nursery nurses, peer support workers, occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants, social workers and pharmacists.

In the first instance, before referral, advice should be sought from a midwife, health visitor or GP, as many women can be offered appropriate initial support and treatment in primary care. However, if more specialist support, advice, interventions or treatment is required, a referral to the perinatal mental health service can be made.

PMHCS can provide specialist mental health assessment and treatment for women and their families in pregnancy, and for women with babies up to 2 years of age who are experiencing moderate to severe perinatal mental health problems. The perinatal mental health difficulties may be new, or linked to previous mental ill health.

There are some known diagnoses that can increase the risk of a mum experiencing perinatal mental health difficulties. These include:

Bipolar affective disorder

Previous episodes of post-partum psychosis

Moderate to severe postnatal depression or anxiety

Previous or current mental health issues prior to or during pregnancy

Previous birth trauma/PTSD

Strong family history of mental health problems in the perinatal period

It is important to identify and support those at risk of developing mental health problems associated with pregnancy and child birth, or those who have pre-existing conditions by providing them with the specialist care that they may need as soon as possible. Pre conception advice is also provided.

Referrals, assessment and support

PATH perinatal panel signup form

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Perinatal Mental Health Community Service (PMHCS)

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The Perinatal Mental Health Community Service (PMHCS) specialises in the assessment, diagnosis and short-term treatment of women 18 and above who are affected by a moderate to severe perinatal mental health illness in the preconception, antenatal and postnatal period We are a multi-professional team consisting of consultant perinatal psychiatrists, registered mental health nurses, psychologists, therapists and assistant psychologists, nursery nurses, peer support workers, occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants, social workers and pharmacists.

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MASIC - supporting Women with injuries from childbirth

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MASIC - supporting Women with injuries from childbirth

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We are advocates for women and aim to change the lives of those injured during childbirth.

The MASIC Foundation supports women who have suffered serious injuries during childbirth.

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About MASIC - Supporting women who have been injured during childbirth.

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MASIC supports women who have suffered injury during childbirth. Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injuries are a leading cause of bowel incontinence.

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About MASIC

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Information for women/birthing people who have experienced 3rd and 4th degree tears

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Information for women/birthing people who have experienced 3rd and 4th degree tears

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What level of activity should I do?

Everyone's experience will be slightly different, and what you view as normal daily activities will differ.

For 4-6 weeks, you should avoid strain or pressure on the anus, and avoid high impact exercise or heavy lifting.

After this, you can gradually increase your general activity.

Looking after a newborn baby and recovering from a third- or fourth-degree tear can be hard. Support from family and friends can help you whilst your body gradually adjusts and gets better.

When can I have sex again?

It's common to be worried by the thought of resuming sexual intercourse after having given birth, particularly if you have experienced a third- or fourth-degree tear.

Once your stitches have healed and bleeding has stopped, you can have sex again when it feels right for you.

Prior to commencing intercourse, you should consider a suitable method of contraception. It is possible to get pregnant very soon after giving birth.

Perineal massage, either on your own or with your partner, may help you feel more comfortable before you begin having sex again.

Sometimes, women who have recently had a baby may notice the vagina is drier than usual, this can be the case particularly if you are breastfeeding.

You may wish to use an appropriate lubricant the first few times you have intercourse (if you are using condoms you should use a water-soluble gel).

Sex may be a little uncomfortable and feel different at first, but the discomfort should not persist.

Chatting with your partner about sex and any anxieties either of you may have and choosing a time when you both feel relaxed can help.

What will happen if I have another baby?

Many women go on to have a straightforward vaginal birth after a third- or fourth-degree tear.

If you continue to experience symptoms from the third- or fourth-degree tear, you may wish to consider a planned caesarean section.

You will be able to discuss your options for future births at your follow-up appointment or early in your next pregnancy.

Your individual circumstances and preferences will always be taken into account so that you can make a decision that is right for you.

Post-traumatic stress disorder

Having a third- or fourth-degree tear can be very distressing and disturbing for women, their partners and their families.

For some women who experience any birth trauma there is a risk of post-trauma stress disorder (PTSD).

Symptoms include flashbacks, heightened anxiety, low mood or isolation.

You may find it hard to bond with your baby.

PTSD can develop immediately after the event, or can occur several weeks, months or years later.

If you, or your partner, experience signs of PTSD, contact your healthcare professional as help is available for you.

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Everyone's experience will be slightly different, and what you view as normal daily activities will differ. For 4-6 weeks, you should avoid strain or pressure on the anus, and avoid high impact exercise or heavy lifting. After this, you can gradually increase your general activity.

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Campaign for Safer Births is working to improve NHS Maternity Services in order to reduce the avoidable deaths and injuries of babies and mothers during labour. Our campaign has been set up in memory of Louie and Harry who both died following negligence during their births

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The Campaign – Campaign for Safer Births

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Researchers have estimated that approximately 500 babies die each year due to avoidable factors during birth. Many more are also left permanently brain damaged or disabled. Research has shown that the majority these tragic deaths and injuries could be avoided with better care.

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Founded and run by women who have experienced birth trauma, we are the only charity in the UK solely dedicated to supporting women and families who have experienced traumatic birth.

Part mental health charity, part campaigning charity, we work to support parents and families, and improve parents’ experience of birth - engaging and educating health professionals, and taking part in research to identify failings in maternal care.

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"I was broken after the birth of my son. My journey to healing started after finding the BTA. It was the first time I felt hope that I would get better, and that I wasn't alone."

- BTA Facebook group member, 2023

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BTA is the only charity in the UK solely dedicated to supporting women and families who have experienced traumatic birth. We work to support parents and families, improve parents' experience of birth, and engage with health professionals and research.

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Grief Encounter - supporting bereaved children & young people

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Grief Encounter - supporting bereaved children & young people

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We care passionately about helping bereaved children, young people and their families find hope and healing after the death of someone close.

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A world where no child is left to grieve alone

We care passionately about helping bereaved children, young people and their families find hope and healing after the death of someone close.

Crises in the news

If you have been affected by the recent devastating events in the news, please read our useful guides or don't hesitate to reach out and call our helpline on 0808 802 0111 from 9am - 9pm weekdays.

Grief Encounter is proud to announce their continued partnership with ITV Good Morning Britain's 1 Million Minutes campaign, working to end loneliness and isolation in the UK through the power of volunteering. The Good Morning Britain '1 Million Minutes' campaign is now in its eighth consecutive year, the initiative is asking viewers to pledge time rather than money and has so far seen more than a quarter of a billion minutes donated to charities looking for volunteers to connect with those who feel alone. Find out more

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Home SUPPORTING BEREAVED CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE

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One child in every UK classroom will experience the death of someone close by the time they reach 16 years old. Grief Encounter is here to help with the confusion, fear, loneliness and pain, providing a lifeline to children and young people to cope with free, immediate, one-to-one support.

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Winston’s Wish is a charity that helps children, teenagers and young adults (up to the age of 25) find their feet when their worlds are turned upside down by grief.

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Winston’s Wish is the UK’s childhood bereavement charity. We support children and their families after the death of someone important.

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We believe that every baby lost is one too many. Tommy's exists to support, care for and champion people, no matter where they may be on their pregnancy journey

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We’re here to provide information and support for anyone who has experienced a miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal death or termination for medical reasons.

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They offer confidential bereavement support to anyone affected by the sudden and unexpected death of a baby oy young child.

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We offer confidential bereavement support to anyone affected by the sudden and unexpected death of a baby or young child.

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4 Louis - Supporting families through miscarriage, stillbirth and child loss.

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4 Louis - Supporting families through miscarriage, stillbirth and child loss.

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4Louis is a UK charity that works across the country to support anyone affected by miscarriage, stillbirth and the death of a baby or child. We also work to improve the care bereaved families receive from health care and other professionals.

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SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS

SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS

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SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH MISCARRIAGE, STILLBIRTH AND CHILD LOSS

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About Us

‘Remember My Baby’ (RMB) is a UK-based registered charity which offers a complimentary gift of baby remembrance photography to all UK parents experiencing the loss of their baby before, during or shortly after birth.

Our Mission

Our goal is to offer a service of baby remembrance photography to parents suffering the loss of their baby in every hospital and birth centre across the UK.

When a family loses a lifetime’s potential for capturing milestones as their child grows, we will capture a precious baby or babies with their parents, siblings and extended family for free. Each family will receive a ‘complimentary gift’ of high-resolution digital images with a copyright licence to print for their own personal, non-commercial use.

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Supporting bereaved families

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Sands - Saving babies' lives. Supporting bereaved families.

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Sands | Saving babies' lives. Supporting bereaved families.

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Sands works to support anyone affected by the death of a baby; improve the care bereaved parents receive; and create a world where fewer babies die.

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An animated memoir by The Telegraph cartoonist, Bob, whose experience of fatherhood was unlike anything he had expected. This is his experience of neonatal care after his daughter was born

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A cartoonist's journey into first-time fatherhood

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Safer sleep for babies, Support for families

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Safer sleep for babies, Support for families

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The Lullaby Trust raises awareness of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), provides expert advice on safer sleep for babies and offers emotional support for bereaved families

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The Lullaby Trust raises awareness of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), provides expert advice on safer sleep for babies and offers emotional support for bereaved families

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Ickle Pickles are the smallest and sickest babies who need intensive care in neonatal units.

There are over 90,000 babies born sick or prematurely in the UK every year.

One in thirteen babies are born prematurely.

Ickle Pickles can be a full term babies (40 weeks) requiring treatment or surgery or more likely babies born prematurely (before 37 weeks). Babies born before 27 weeks are classed as extremely premature and it is often these tiniest babies who need the most help.

Since 2009, the Ickle Pickles children’s charity has been raising money for the intensive care equipment that treats these babies and helps to keep them alive.

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About the Ickle Pickles Children’s Charity | Ickle Pickles

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Since 2009, the Ickle Pickles children’s charity has been raising money for intensive care equipment that treats the smallest and sickest babies across the UK

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YLF provide the children’s rights and advocacy service for all young people entitled to receive support from Kent and Medway Specialist Children’s Services.

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Advocacy & Children’s Rights - The Young Lives Foundation

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YLF provide the children’s rights and advocacy service for all young people entitled to receive support from Kent and Medway Specialist Children’s Services.

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Charity supporting you through every milestone of your journey with twins, triplets or more

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Twins Trust - We support twins, triplets and more...

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Supporting you through every milestone of your journey with twins, triplets or more. From being pregnant with twins, triplets or quads through to parenting twins, triplets or quads, we are here for you.

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PEEPS Hypoxic Ischaemic Encephalopathy (HIE) awareness and support

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PEEPS Hypoxic Ischaemic Encephalopathy (HIE) awareness and support

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A fantastic charity that can provide resources, information and support to families when their baby has required therapeutic hypothermia (cooling) following birth or has been diagnosed with HIE

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Peeps HIE Charity | HIE Awareness & Support

Welcome to Peeps HIE

We provide support to parents, families & friends of those affected by HIE (Hypoxic-Ischaemic Encephalopathy), raising awareness of HIE.

Some of the things we do include:

Provide information about HIE

Buddy/peer support

Counselling and therapy

Funding for equipment

Find out more about what we do...

Our Family stories

We pride ourselves on the support we can give to families experiencing the challenges of day-to-day life with children affected by HIE.

Read our Family Stories

Peeps on Twitter

Our information leaflets are written by families, with families, for families.
They can be downloaded from our website, or printed copies sent out - please get in touch if we can help support.

https://www.peeps-hie.org/resources-downloads/

#HeardOfHIE

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If you'd like to find out more about our new book club, starting in 2024, and register an interest, please check out our website:

It will be online, peer-led, from the comfort of your own home, and just for H.I.E. parents/grandparents/carers.
Suggestions...

We recognise that each H.I.E. journey can be unique; we aim to provide support and guidance tailored to the diverse needs of our community.

Inclusion matters and is an agenda item on every meeting we have with Trustees and employees.

From informational resources to emotional...

Twitter icon
View more

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Peeps HIE Charity | HIE Awareness & Support

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Peeps is a UK charity, dedicated to supporting those affected by HIE (hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy). We provide emotional, practical and financial support.

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The DadPad was created because babies don't come with a set of instructions, and dads told us that they wanted important information on what to expect and how to care for their baby. We listened to what dads, their partners and professionals asked for and combined it all in this new DadPad for dads-to-be

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I was a bit scared when we found out we were having a baby, obviously happy, but a bit scared and in the beginning I was a bit clueless. The child development part is my favourite bit, but there's things in there, like things about mental health, that I didn't know about and that I didn't know you needed to know about.

Ross, 22

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DadPad | The Essential Guide for New Dads | Support Guide for New Dads

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Developed with the NHS, DadPad gives new dads and dads-to-be the knowledge and skills needed to gain confidence and give their baby the best start in life.

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Being separated from your baby is something that no parent expects. It can be a daunting and upsetting experience if your baby is born too soon or becomes unwell after birth and requires care on a neonatal unit. The BLISS website offers a huge amount of resources that can offer information and support to guide you through. They also have a helpline for parents requiring additional information or a listening ear.

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For babies born premature or sick | Bliss

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Our vision is that every baby born premature or sick in the UK has the best chance of survival and quality of life.

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Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond - local resources available in Kent and Medway

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Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond - local resources available in Kent and Medway

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A comprehensive website dedicated to providing information from conception through to birth and well beyond.

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Kent and Medway - Bump, Birth and Beyond

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This website was created with women and expectant families from Kent & Medway. Your maternity care is safest when you understand your choices and can make the right decisions for you and your baby. Bump, birth and beyond gives local, trusted information. Your local midwives and maternity team look forward to meeting you and answering any questions.

This website does not provide specific medical advice.

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Home :: Kent and Medway - Bump, Birth and Beyond

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This website was created with women and expectant families from Kent & Medway. Your maternity care is safest when you understand your choices and can make the right decisions for you and your baby. Bump, birth and beyond gives local, trusted information. Your local midwives and maternity team look forward to meeting you and answering any questions.

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Providing excellent support during pregnancy and beyond.

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We're here to support you and your unique experience of pregnancy, birth, and early parenthood.

Our vision is that everyone who becomes a parent feels confident, connected, and safe.

We share evidence-based information you can trust

We create opportunities to connect with other parents

We listen to your experiences, amplify all parents' voices and campaign for change

We are strong advocates for improving experiences of pregnancy, birth, infant feeding, and early parenthood, equitably, for all parents.

Access networks of support and build friendships through our courses and community events.

Use our resources to make informed decisions that feel right for you.

Information for parents

If you're pregnant or a new parent, we know that you will have a number of questions and concerns about coronavirus. In our sections below, we've created a range of articles about how coronavirus might affect your pregnancy, birth and early days as a parent.

Pregnancy

When it comes to your pregnancy, we've got it covered. You'll find everything you need to help you feel confident and reassured over the next nine months right here.
Find out more

Labour & birth

Thinking about how, what happens and where to give birth? We're here to help you feel more confident. We've got information and tips on everything you need to know.
Find out more

Baby & toddler

Your baby's arrived and you've probably got 101 things on your mind. Don't worry, you're not on your own. We're here with information and support as your baby develops.
Find out more

Life as a parent

You've just had a baby and everyone is focused on your little one. But how about you? We're with you on your journey with support and tips from other mums and dads.
Find out more

Courses and workshops

Interactive, engaging and social, our antenatal course is a fun and exciting way to grow your knowledge of birth and early parenthood, and make life-long friends.
View all courses & workshops

Local activities and meet-ups

Our local activities and meet-ups can help you build up a supportive social network around you.

Support NCT Charity by becoming a member

Join NCT and there's great member benefits for you - exclusive live talks, money-saving offers & competitions, digital magazine & quick-read newsletters, plus early entry to every NCT Nearly New Sale - whilst you help fund free support for others.

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The UK's leading charity for parents | NCT

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We are the charity that supports people as they become parents. We're here for you through pregnancy, birth, and early parenthood.

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Maternity and Neonatal Voices Partnership (MNVP)

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Maternity and Neonatal Voices Partnership (MNVP)

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Be part of an amazing support network ensuring that the voices of women/birthing people and families are heard by those that can make a difference. I can't link Facebook pages here but if you search by your local trust there is lots of information.

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Kent and Medway - Bump, Birth and Beyond

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As a maternity service user, we want your voice to be heard by those creating and providing local maternity services. Maternity Voices Partnerships are the groups set up to make sure this happens.

gathers feedback from women, birthing people and families who have recently used maternity services. No matter where you are on your maternity journey we want to hear about your experience."

- Jennifer Hamilton, East Kent MVP Chair and Link Chair for Kent and Medway LMNS

Maternity Voices Partnerships are part of NHS England's vision for the crucial role of Patient Participation. Defined by National Maternity Voices; "a Maternity Voices Partnership (MVP) is an NHS working group: a team of women and their families, commissioners and providers (midwives and doctors) working together to review and contribute to the development of local maternity care. MVPs bridge the gap between the health service and the families who use maternity services, to improve things for everyone involved. We have meetings every three months that you're welcome to submit feedback for, attend or just see the meeting minutes.

MVP Chairs are independent contractors for the Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG). That means we don't work directly for the hospital or the trust and we are impartial, working as "critical friends" to the hospitals and Trusts.

We're always keen to hear your feedback and - if you'd have some time to volunteer - please get in touch with us to find out how much (or how little) time you could contribute. Getting involved is sometimes as simple as sharing posts on social media to get the word out amongst local friends and family - or even a few minutes answering surveys!

It's vital for healthcare services to work together with service users like you to help shape a care system that works for everyone. Maternity Voices Partnerships are a key part of that vision. We really want to hear your experiences - everything that went well and where there's room for improvement, too. We don't take complaints (find your local hospital Patient Advice and Liaison Service for that) but we do take on constructive criticism; it's important for us to know where things could have been better.

Find each of the Maternity Voices Partnerships on Facebook here:

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Get involved through Maternity Voices Partnerships :: Kent and Medway - Bump, Birth and Beyond

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As a maternity service user, we want your voice to be heard by those creating and providing local maternity services. Maternity Voices Partnerships are the groups set up to make sure this happens. gathers feedback from women, birthing people and families who have recently used maternity services.