September 2023 – Update Newsletter
First Anniversary – a year since we began
The 1st of September marks the first anniversary of the Independent Review – all of us at the Review Team would like to extend a huge thank you to all of you reading this newsletter. We recognize that stepping forward, be that over the phone or in writing, is such a huge step to make. We could not have got this far as a Review team without you taking the decision to reach out for us. Please look out for media coverage about the review on the 1st of September!
A change to who is included in the review – more information!
You may be aware from the national and local press that the review methodology has now been changed to the ‘opt out’ method. Any cases identified by Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust 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, on the 25th of September 2023.
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 hope that with the introduction of the opt out methodology we will be reviewing more than 1800 cases. 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.
It is important to explain that if you do not want to join the Review, (i.e. that you want to ‘opt out) we will explain clearly how to do that and your view will be respected
The Month’s Nottingham Support Charities
Sands United FC Nottingham
Sands United is a unique way for bereaved men to come together through sport, building a community and support network, enabling bereaved fathers (no matter how long ago their baby died) to talk about their grief and experiences as father when they are ready. If you would like to know more, please get in contact with Raj @sands_utd_notts or email Raj on [email protected]. Raj explained to Donna that Sands United FC is madeup of “bereaved dad’s first and footballers second” and that they “always find time to support and look out for one another”
Forever Stars
‘Forever Stars are a baby loss charity based in Nottingham. They offer a welcoming, safe space to come along and meet other families by attending a variety of different sessions including, coffee mornings, chocolate and clay making, yoga and many more. They also have a Serenity Garden at Highfields, where if you wish you can request a petal with your baby’s name on and choose to hang it on either their star or acorn sculpture within the peaceful garden. You can find out more at :
Zephyrs
Zephyrs is a charity based in Nottingham that offers support to anyone touched by pregnancy loss or the death of a baby or child., no matter how long ago. They offer a variety of events and support groups aimed at giving people a safe space to talk when they are ready. To find out more, please visit their website at https://www.zephyrsnottingham.org.uk/