Listening to Local Voices: July MNVP Event Highlights
Key Issues Raised by Newham Residents
During focus group discussions, Newham service users shared honest reflections about pregnancy, birth, and postnatal care.
Mental health was a major concern. Many said they were asked vague questions like “How are you?” rather than being given space to talk openly. Suggestions included asking more emotionally specific questions, like “Are you feeling overwhelmed?”
Continuity of care was also raised. People often saw different staff at each appointment, especially in hospital. This made it hard to build trust. Community midwife clinics were praised for offering more consistent, personal care.
Postnatal support felt too limited. Most said two visits after birth didn’t meet their needs, especially when they were struggling with breastfeeding or feeling isolated. Attendees wanted more face-to-face help and less reliance on leaflets or QR codes.
Some also felt rushed into decisions during labour or treatment. Others said they weren’t asked if they were comfortable with male staff being present.
Voices from Tower Hamlets
Tower Hamlets attendees shared similar concerns around access, choice, and postnatal support. Some only found out about help like breastfeeding clinics or follow-up calls after leaving hospital. Many didn’t know what services existed.
There were also emotional conversations around past trauma, isolation, and how the pandemic continues to affect people’s wellbeing. People called for more safe, non-clinical spaces where women and birthing people can connect and share.
Support Services
Several helpful services were mentioned during the session but many hadn’t heard of them before:
- Newham Infant Feeding Team
- Follow-up lactation calls from Royal London
- On-ward postnatal workshops
- Tower Hamlets’ 24-hour mental health line
- HENRY infant feeding support (Waltham Forest)
Better communication and awareness about these services are needed.
Looking Ahead: More Inclusive Maternity Info
Stephanie Rymer also shared an update on the new North East London maternity information platform, launching later this year. It’s being co-designed to make sure information is accessible, inclusive, and user-led, whether you're neurodivergent, Deaf, or speak English as a second language.
How You Can Get Involved
MNVP is committed to continuing the conversation and driving change in the maternity and neonatal care sector.
If you want to stay updated on future MNVP meetings and initiatives, be sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook.
We welcome your feedback, questions, and suggestions, so feel free to reach out to your chairs via mnvptwn@healthwatchnewham.co.uk.
By staying connected and continuing the conversation, we can work together to improve maternity care for all families. Join us in making a difference!
