"I was recently in Harrogate hospital ..."

What I liked

I was recently in Harrogate hospital for the birth of my first baby. Prior to the birth we attended active labour ante-natal classes which were very beneficial.

The staff in the delivery suite were fantastic and respected all my wishes in my birth plan. They were supportive and helpful througout the labour and during my immediate after care. The majority of staff on Pannal Ward were also brilliant and I received really great advice and help on breastfeeding. I don't think I would be still feeding if it hadn't been for advice given by one particular midwife.

Due to an infection me and baby stayed in hospital for 5days and my baby was treated in the SCBU - again staff were fantastic and put us all at ease.

I couldn't have asked for a better experience for the birth and after care - a superb service.

All staff we came into contact with were friendly, helpful and knowledgable. The food was good too. Overall a superb service and I would highly recommend Harrogate maternity services.

What could be improved

I was a little disappointed that the birthing pool was not available as work was being carried out. I don't think the pool will be as popular or as beneficial now that it has been separated from a delivery suite. I would not be keen to move between the pool room and a separate delivery room.

A few days after the birth we returned to hospital to the out of hours GP service. The service was good however I was concerned that staff (two GPs and a nurse) did not appear to be using the hand rub before examining my baby. There were also a numbers of cupboards lying wide open with a sign on them saying they must be locked at all times!