Portlaoise Hospital is getting a maternity bereavement space (But shouldn’t they ALL have one?)

The beleaguered hospital was the centre of massive safety concerns over the last few years.

Practices at the maternity unit of the Midlands Regional Hospital were part of an investigation by RTE in 2014 -  and just last year the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) published a report after the death of a number of infant babies at the hospital. It pointed out issues such a under-staffing and under-funding were part of the problem (just 38 midwives worked there when it should have had 52) But now an additional funding of 6 million euro has been provided and part of this includes a sanctuary for families experiencing pregnancy loss and stillbirth. The space is also being funded with a Design and Dignity grant from the HSE. Services at this bereavement area will include an ensuite bedroom, a comfortable seating area and a kitchenette. It will also be soundproofed. Michael Knowles, General Manager at Midland Regional Hospital, Portlaoise told Laois Today:

“Our vision is to create a sanctuary and safe space for parents who experience the bereavement of their child. We plan to provide a home-like environment with sleeping facilities that will allow the baby’s father to stay overnight comfortably. Having a dedicated quiet space will enable parents to be cared for with privacy and dignity. The creation of a comfortable calming space will allow parents spend time with their baby, creating special life-long memories which are crucial to dealing with their grief.”

This is something we here at HerFamily feel very strongly about. We have spoken to many mums and dads who have lost babies and were left to sleep beside joyful new mums. Often dads would have to sleep on the floor beside their grieving partner - unable to reach out for one another during this difficult time. We want to know why services like this are not available in every maternity hospital in the country. Such facilities would make such a difference to families trying to come to terms with such a devastating loss. An area where private grief is respected which would let parents be with their baby in a dignified, comfortable and private space during such a profoundly difficult time. What do you think? Is this something you would support? We would love you to share your story with us.