Common worries and questions

Who should I bring to my appointment?

It’s up to you who attends your appointments, some women prefer to be seen alone however we would welcome involvement from partners, carers or support networks at appointments.

 

What should I bring to my appointment?

The most important thing is for you to attend, If you are post partum please bring your baby if possible. It is not essential but it is useful to have your hand held maternity notes and a list of any current medication your take.

 

What to do if I do not want to attend or no longer feel I need the appointment?

A lot of appointments are lost each week when people don’t attend as planned.  We know your situation may change and things might happen that mean you cannot meet with us but please let us know so that we can use the appointment for someone else. If you call us, we can rearrage if you need to or if your situation has changed and you no longer want the appointment, we can cancel it all together. Please contact us on the number provided on your appointment letter about any changes.

Some women are understandably anxious and our staff can offer some reassurance and answer any concerns/questions you might have. We realise sometimes due to childcare, illness or other commitments you may need to re-arrange appointments please contact the team to discuss.

 

Will my information be shared?

Your appointment like all those in healthcare are treated as confidential, however you will be asked at your initial assessment if you are happy for information to be shared for professionals also involved in your care such as your GP, Obstetrician and midwife. 
In certain circumstances if there are concerns regarding your safety or others safety that information will be shared. If you would like to discuss this further please contact the team to discuss

 

Will I be referred to social care?

This a common worry but most families under the care of our service don’t require social services involvement. If there are concerns regarding risks towards your children then you will be involved in these discussions.
Families often worry that a referral to children’s social care will result in their baby or child being removed, in reality this is very rare, and most social care involvement is aimed at supporting you to remain together as a family.

 

Will I be admitted to hospital or sectioned?

The majority of support we offer is within the community. In rare circumstances we may suggest hospital admission if it is felt suitable and necessary to provide treatment within this setting. 

 

How long will I be hospital for?

There is no set admission length and this varies depending on a women’s difficulties and the appropriate treatment plan. This will be discussed throughout your admission with you and your family. We aim to keep people in hospital for no longer than necessary.

 

How can I support my partner?

Please see resources section for help in supporting your partner. We also encourage partners and families to seek support for themselves. Please see the resource section and telephone if you have any further questions

 

How long will I be supported for?

We currently support Women starting from 13 weeks gestation up until 1 year post partum however each woman/family is considered on a individual basis and may need differing lengths of time under the service. It may be that we advise alternative services/agencies during this time period. For some families we may remain involved for up to 2 years post-partum.

 

What to do if I’m not happy with my care?

If you are unhappy with your care or the service you have received, it is important to let us know so we can improve. It is worthwhile discussing your concerns early on with the service, as they may be able to sort the issue out quickly. Most problems can be dealt with at this stage but, in some cases, you may feel more comfortable speaking to someone not directly involved in your care please contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS).