MOTHERS’ CHARTER

Press, Volume C, Issue 29505, 5 May 1961, Page 19

MOTHERS’ CHARTER

Action Sought In U.K.

(N.Z.P. A. -Reuter— Copyright) LONDON, May 4. British hospitals have been given four months by the Minister of Health (Mr Enoch Powell) to take action on a mothers’ charter—a plan designed to end the unhappiness and fears of women in maternity wards. The “charter’’ is set out today in a Government report on the treatments of expectant mothers. It said: “Some mothers complain that they are contradicted when they say they are about to deliver their baby and are often treated rudely. “Some say they are frightened to ring the bell a second time, with the result that they deliver the baby unaided.” Reports Wanted Now Mr Powell has ordered that the report and its recommendations be sent to every hospital management committee and regional board. He has given them until July 31 to report on what action they have taken. Among the suggestions made in the report were: Husbands, or relatives, should be allowed to sit in with the expectant mother whenever possible and not only during visiting hours. Staff should always be on hand to make sure the mother is not left alone during the critical stages of pregnancy.