August 2023 – Update Newsletter
Change to who is included in the review
You may be aware from the National and local press that this review methodology has now been changed to the ‘opt out’ method. Any cases identified by NUH under the open book process that meet the terms of reference will now be included in the review unless families specifically ‘opt out’. Full details of the change will be sent to families, not currently in the review, in the Autumn.
This change means that we will now be able to review the majority of the 1377 cases that the Trust identified without needing specific consent from families to see their maternity records. We are confident that this change will allow the review to get the best possible insight into maternity services at Nottingham NUH NHS Trust and allow all voices, from all communities to be heard across Nottinghamshire and the surrounding areas.
Nottingham Support Charities
There are several local Nottingham charities that support families following the loss of a baby, as well as national charities.
Zephyr’s
Zephyr’s provides support in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire for bereaved parents and families following pregnancy loss or the death or a baby or child, as well as for those who are pregnant or parenting after loss. https://www.zephyrsnottingham.org.uk
Forever Stars
Forever Stars funds support reading material for families that try to help the grieving process become more manageable. This includes books and bears for siblings who are coming to terms with the loss of a baby. They also funded two serenity suites in both Nottingham hospitals and The Serenity Garden located in Highfields Park in Nottingham. https:/ /www.foreverstars.org
The Little Ted Foundation
The Little Ted Foundation provides support to bereaved families following the loss of a child and those with seriously ill children. www.thelittletedfoundation.org
There are also national charities that can offer support and help.
https://www.childbereavementuk.org
https://www.lullabytrust.org.uk
Other supporting charities are listed on our website.
Psychological Support
FPSS are offering another informal drop in to introduce themselves and hear what people might like in the groups starting in September. The session will be via Teams on 22nd August at 6pm-7:30pm. If you are interested, just email FPSS, Trent Pts (TRENT PTS) [email protected] or call 0115 200 1000.