"Outstanding maternity care"

I had my baby via c-section last month and from the moment I stepped into the hospital at 8 weeks pregnant for my first midwife appointment to the time we left with our daughter, I was throughly impressed with the standard of care.

A couple of things stood out in particular:

- it is not now policy for patients to see the same midwife at each appointment, however one of the MWs at Kingston saw my notes in the tray each time I visited and made an effort to see me

- waiting times were extremely low - I had one appointment start 30 mins late as the consultant was called away to an emergency. The remainder started within 10 minutes of their scheduled time.

- all the staff I met anti-natally and prior to delivery were professional, friendly and took the time to listen to and address my concerns. The theatre midwife was particularly lovely. When we were moved to the 'normal' post natal ward, the midwives were slightly less helpful - preferring to stand and chat with other staff around the reception desk than visit patients, even when requested. Another midwife also insisted on waking our daughter up against my wishes just after I got her to sleep to 'prove' that skin on skin is an effective soothing method

- a few reviews have mentioned the parking - if you turn right once you enter the car park and park in the sections nearer A&E, there is always plenty of space and the walk to maternity is not far at all.