§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services to what standards maternity units are required to conform before they are licensed to operate; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MoyleStandards of provision in maternity units are for individual health authorities to determine. Professional advisory machinery exists within each area which can assist in this task.
An interim design guide on maternity departments was issued to former regional hospital boards and boards of governors in July 1973 and was intended to be used in conjunction with hospital building note 21 maternity department published in 1966. It provided interim guidance on maternity departments of 75 to 125 beds
290W
§ Mr. DeakinsThe information is as follows:
attached to or forming part of a district general hospital including aspects such as ward accommodation, central delivery section, special care baby nursery, the maternity clinic and engineering services.
Registered private nursing homes, which may provide maternity facilities, are subject to the provisions of the Conduct of Nursing Homes Regulations 1963 which require them to provide, amongst other things, adequate accommodation, equipment and staffing. Area health authorities are responsible for the registration and supervision of such homes. It is for individual health authorities to determine what standards satisfy the requirements of the regulations.