No time to relax our guard on COVID-19 says RCM

on 09 July 2020 Midwives RCM Midwifery Maternity Services Covid-19 NHS Staff

We have got to keep up strict anti-infection measures to tackle COVID-19 says the Royal College of Midwives (RCM).  The call follows reports of a COVID-19 infection outbreak at Hillingdon hospital. 

Commenting, Executive Director for Professional Leadership at the RCM, Birte Harlev- Lam said: “Even as the UK sees some loosening of restrictions around the pandemic, we must not let down our guard in the NHS. Outbreaks such as that at Hillingdon hit home the fact that this virus is still here. This virus is still killing people and still causing suffering and harm. It is all our responsibilities – staff and visitors - to follow the guidelines in place in each trust. It could be a matter of life and death and it could hit you or someone close to you.”

The RCM’s plea comes as reports from some RCM activists in London say that rules are being ignored in some London trusts, with some staff and visitors not wearing facemasks at all times. 

Birte added, “This is tough for everyone, for midwives and maternity support workers, for the women they care for and for their families. But we can see the light at the end of the tunnel and now is not the time to relax. Follow the guidelines and protect yourself and those you care for, in and out of hospital.” 

ENDS

The RCM’s COVID-19 resources with advice for maternity staff and for women and their families can be read at https://www.rcm.org.uk/coronavirus/.

To contact the RCM media office call 020 7312 3456 or email media@rcm.org.uk.Notes to Editors

The RCM is the only trade union and professional association dedicated to serving midwifery and the whole midwifery team. We provide workplace advice and support, professional and clinical guidance and information, and learning opportunities with our broad range of events, conferences and online resources. For more information visit the RCM website at https://www.rcm.org.uk/.