"Excellent continuity of care at Leicester General"

What I liked

Leicester General Hospital

I was extremely impressed with continuity of care - as is often the case with labour I was treated by several midwives and found the transfers seamless and professional, and I felt instantly looked after as each new midwife arrived.

As I had my son at 5:16pm, I then stayed overnight. I was desperate to go home the next morning to be with my family, and only had to tell one member of staff this - they then ensured both me and my child had all support and tests necessary early on in the morning so I could go home as soon as possible. I was very grateful for their efficiency, particularly as this involved several different health professionals.

I am currently expecting my second child and did not hesitate to choose the General again.

What could be improved

I find contacting the antenatal clinic extremely difficult - and did so with my first child as well. In 2010 the phone lines were often not working and despite the best efforts of the switchboard on several occasions I simply had no way to get through.

This year the phone usually rings out unanswered. Having handed in my letters at my appointments, through my own error I no longer have a direct contact number. The main hospital switchboard have given me three different numbers, none of which work. I'm unsure as to why, the most likely explanation seems to be that numbers are being changed and not updated.

I feel this is something that needs to be addressed - in order to change my 20 week scan I may have to drive 40 minutes from my home to the hospital with my 15 month old in tow.