"Left for hours, unable to move, our baby..."

We have just had a baby at the Leicester General. The birth went quite smoothly but when we were transfered to the Maternity care (ward 30) it was clear there were not nearly enough staff to take care of the mothers and children there.

My wife had a C section meaning she couldn't move from her bed or sit up without extreme pain and risk of damage. She also couldn't lift our baby. She called repeatedly during the nights only to be left for hours once pressing the assistance alarm button. I believe the staff were constantly fire fighting and not in control of the situation due to the low levels of staff. I don't blame the staff as when they were able to be there they did a great job and acted perfectly but I don't think it was a safe environment to be in.

I was led to believe that there where a few staff away from work due to illness but I dont really care. There should be staff to cover sickness leave.

I would not advise going to the general to have your baby as I dont think they can offer the level of care required to make you safe.

Having said this I am grateful to the staff there were there as they were great.

A poor experience.