Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Neonatal Care: Parental Accommodation

Tuesday 23 July 2024 · 3 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 3 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Ministerial Friend acknowledged the unacceptable separation of babies from parents during neonatal care.
  • The Minister stated they are analyzing NHS England's review findings to address accommodation needs.
  • Jim Shannon raised concerns about physical and emotional support for mothers in traumatic circumstances.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Bell Ribeiro-Addy Lab Clapham and Brixton Hill
NHS
Context

Three out of four parents are unable to stay with their critically ill babies overnight in neonatal units. NHS England concluded a review on neonatal estates but is still analyzing findings.

Question

If he will take steps to help increase the number of accommodation units available for parents whose babies have been admitted to neonatal care units. Recent research from Bliss found that for every 10 babies needing overnight stay, only one room is available for their parents. How will the Minister ensure existing guidance on facilities for families is followed and trusts can access needed resources?

Answer from Karin Smyth

My hon. Friend is right; separation of babies from their parents during neonatal care is unacceptable, as shown by the shocking state of the current estate. We are analyzing NHS England's recent review findings to inform next steps.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific details on ensuring adherence to guidance and resource allocation for trusts

How: Look At The Findings

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Q2 Bell Ribeiro-Addy Lab Clapham and Brixton Hill
NHS
Context

Three out of four parents are unable to stay with their critically ill babies overnight in neonatal units. NHS England concluded a review on neonatal estates but is still analyzing findings.

Question

If he will take steps to help increase the number of accommodation units available for parents whose babies have been admitted to neonatal care units. Recent research from Bliss found that for every 10 babies needing overnight stay, only one room is available for their parents. How will the Minister ensure existing guidance about facilities for families in neonatal care units is followed and trusts can access needed resources?

Answer from Karin Smyth

My hon. Friend is absolutely right that the separation of babies from their parents during neonatal care is unacceptable, and about the shocking state of the estate as we heard earlier. We are analyzing NHS England's review findings quickly, and I will get back to her on those specific points.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific details on ensuring adherence to guidance and resource allocation for trusts

How: Look At The Findings

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Q3 Jim Shannon DUP Strangford
NHS Mental Health
Context

Parents of neonatally cared-for babies face both physical and emotional trauma. The issue is about providing comprehensive support, including mental health.

Question

This issue goes beyond accommodation; it also involves physical and emotional help for mothers who have been through traumatic circumstances. What will be done to ensure that mothers and babies receive all necessary support?

Answer from Karin Smyth

The hon. Gentleman makes an important point about mental health support during the critical period of neonatal care. We will absolutely make sure that this is looked at.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific details on measures for full support, including mental health services

How: Looked At

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