Concerns raised about downgrading of neonatal unit
Published: Thursday 2 November 2023
Significant concerns have been expressed about the downgrading of an established Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
A motion, agreed at a meeting of South Lanarkshire Council, means the council will write to the Scottish Government Health Minister to seek answers about the award-winning neonatal unit at University Hospital, Wishaw being downgraded from an established Neonatal Intensive Care Unit to a Local Neonatal Unit
The motion was proposed by Councillor Richard Nelson and seconded by Councillor Celine Handibode.
The motion states:
“This decision followed the release of the 'Neonatal Intensive Care Options Appraisal Report' by the Scottish Government on July 23, 2023.
“The downgrading of this unit would result in NHS Lanarkshire, the third-largest health board, losing a highly functional, essential service for babies and their families.
“This affects not only Lanarkshire families but also those who have been transferred from across Scotland and England as part of the Scottish Perinatal Network.
“Families in Lanarkshire have already expressed significant concerns about these changes through an online petition signed by over 12,000 people.
“There are concerns that the correct process was not followed, and we believe that these key factors and questions must be addressed by the Scottish Government Health Minister:
“This council agrees to formally write to the Scottish Government Health Minister to seek answers to these key factors and calls for a full independent investigation into the decision-making process regarding the downgrade of the Neonatal Care Unit at University Hospital, Wishaw, with active participation from NHS Lanarkshire.
“Furthermore, we emphasise our commitment to safeguarding babies and families in our communities and our expectation of the highest quality of care for all in Lanarkshire.”
17 May 2024
Bowling along nicely thanks to PB money
16 May 2024
Have your say on shaping town centre’s future
15 May 2024
New tennis courts served up in East Kilbride
14 May 2024
Roads resurfacing works for Larkhall town centre
14 May 2024
Rifleman Khan welcomes everyone to museum
13 May 2024
Wish List helps Strathaven event
10 May 2024
Double boost for Hamilton masterplan
10 May 2024
Community Wish List boosts Men's Shed in Biggar
9 May 2024
Participatory Budget is recipe for community spirit
8 May 2024
Popular facilities get investment boost