Long awaited new triage space opened in Cygnet Wing by Trust Chair, Richard Sumray
For months, there has been eager anticipation and excitement around the ongoing works taking place on the first floor of Cygnet Wing by contractors, Simply Renovations, in transforming the previously tired area to create a bright new triage space and reception for Delivery Suite.
In early May, a small ribbon cutting ceremony was held with David Carter, CEO, Richard Sumray, Trust Chair and a number of maternity colleagues to mark this momentous occasion.
We are delighted to now have a dedicated triage area at the front of the delivery suite with a small waiting area just inside the entrance. It has been specifically designed to provide the ideal environment for expectant mothers, birthing people and their families at the time when they need monitoring and reassurance. There is also a brand new, fit for purpose reception desk and working space and kitchen area for the team.
A collaborative approach was held on the design of this project, with input from maternity colleagues, the Trust Capital Projects team and service user input, facilitated by the Bedford Maternity Voices Partnership (MVP).
Director of Midwifery at Bedfordshire Hospitals, Emma Hardwick, said: “The launch of this new triage space is particularly exciting for our maternity unit at Bedford Hospital and will enable us to provide the best possible experience for families using our services.”
Emma continued: “I would like to say a special thank you to the maternity staff for working so steadfastly throughout the building works, the Capital Projects team, the contractors – Simply Renovations and the Bedford MVP Co-Chairs for the support in gaining service user input into the design.”
Tara Pauley, Head of Midwifery for the Bedford Hospital site added: “Since joining the team at Bedford in 2021, this has been a much needed dedicated space and I am both delighted we have progressed this work and thankful to all those that made this happen. In addition to the creation of this space, we are also launching a nationally recognised maternity triage system to ensure the best outcomes and safety for those in our care”.
A separate area for planned assessments, the Day Assessment Unit, remains open Monday to Saturday and continues to function as usual. For any unplanned appointments, or concerns in pregnancy when you are over 20 weeks pregnant, such as concerns around not feeling your baby’s movements, please contact Triage on 01234 795805. For any early pregnancy concerns under 20 weeks please contact our Early Pregnancy Unit on 01234 730576, alternatively your GP, or community midwife.