(2) what assessment she has made of the impact of proposed changes to midwifery services in Leeds on the distances midwifery staff will have to travel in the course of their duties; and what provision has been made for the effect on costs of such travel;
(3) what consultation was undertaken on proposed changes to midwifery provision in Leeds with (a) midwifery staff and (b) representatives of the Leeds Primary Care Trust.
[holding answer 22 March 2007]: The NHS Yorkshire and the Humber Strategic Health Authority reports that the proposed changes were formulated in November 2006 and consultation involving the Royal College of Midwives, human resources and local staff side commenced in December 2006. Staff have been invited to raise their concerns at one to one meetings. The head of midwifery works in close collaboration with the primary care commissioners, midwifery educationalists, and the health visiting lead, who are aware of the proposed changes and welcome the modernisation schedule for maternity services taking shape. Focus groups have also been held with women to better understand their expectations of the service.
Midwives will continue to be available to provide home visits where appropriate. The provision of home visits will be based on an assessment of risk and need.
The Leeds Teaching Hospitals National Health Service Trust may require staff to change their work base for operational reasons. Eligibility for reimbursement of excess travel does not normally apply in these circumstances under the current agenda for change terms and conditions for staff employed in the NHS.