**Inspectors Raise Patient Safety Fears at North Wales Maternity Unit**
A recent assessment by Healthcare Inspectorate Wales (HIW) has raised significant concerns over the ability of a maternity ward in Ysbyty Gwynedd to provide consistently safe care for mothers and newborns. The findings, released following an unannounced three-day inspection in February 2025, shed light on both positive developments and pressing challenges at the Llifon Ward, which specialises in antenatal and postnatal treatment.
The HIW inspectors acknowledged progress on several fronts since their last visit, noting that women and their families are generally treated with respect and compassion. The environment was described as clean, calm, and welcoming—qualities that play an essential role in the wellbeing of patients during the emotionally charged periods before and after childbirth.
However, the review exposed a series of deficiencies requiring urgent action to guarantee that care remains both safe and effective. Central to the HIW’s concerns was uncertainty about the staff’s current expertise and training. The inspectors reported that it was unclear whether all team members possessed the up-to-date knowledge and skills vital for safe maternity care, particularly those in obstetric roles such as doctors, midwives, and nurses.
One recurring issue highlighted in the report was the inconsistent handover of medical information during shift changes. Inspectors observed variable standards of communication, with some handovers inadequately documented or insufficiently thorough. This gap poses a potential risk for patients, especially during labour, as crucial information may be lost or misunderstood between shifts. HIW has urged the health board to establish clearer protocols to ensure safe clinical decision-making.
The inspection also identified low rates of compliance with mandatory training among key maternity staff. This shortfall raised doubts about the readiness of medical personnel to respond appropriately to emergencies or complex clinical situations. Inspectors have strongly recommended that the health board accelerates efforts to complete essential staff training and implements immediate measures to safeguard women and infants during this transitional period.
Translation and communication challenges also surfaced in the report. Access to translation services was described as inconsistent, potentially impeding the ability of non-English speaking patients to fully engage in their care or give informed consent for obstetric procedures. HIW emphasised that improvements are needed in the consent process, to ensure every patient comprehends and agrees to her treatment plan.
Other operational concerns included questions over the management of the second obstetric theatre and the performance of the Maternity Outpatient Assessment Unit. Inspectors additionally pointed out lapses in how key decisions during labour were recorded, highlighting the need for accurate and thorough documentation throughout the patient journey.
Staff morale and relationships with management emerged as a mixed picture. While the team was universal in its commitment to providing kind and professional care, some employees raised issues about reduced access to senior midwifery leaders, as well as lingering uncertainties stemming from recently updated leadership arrangements. There was also mention of outdated policies, gaps in involvement around incident reviews, and a call for stronger mechanisms to ensure learning is shared across the unit.
A recurring plea from staff was for renewed emphasis on recruitment, retention, and proper induction of new staff to sustain the highest standards of care. Despite these unresolved matters, HIW noted the dedication and resolve of the staff under considerable pressure.
Alun Jones, Chief Executive of Healthcare Inspectorate Wales, commented on the outcome: “This inspection highlights the dedication and professionalism of staff in delivering dignified, patient-centred care. It also identifies areas requiring immediate and sustained improvement. We urge the health board to act promptly, and we will continue to work closely with them to ensure progress is made.”
The report serves as a reminder not only of the dedication of frontline NHS workers, but of the perpetual need for vigilance and systemic improvement in patient safety, staff training, and clear communication within healthcare environments. The health board has been called on to address these findings without delay and to prioritise the wellbeing of both mothers and newborns in North Wales.