A group which has campaigned against changes to maternity provision in Caithness has agreed to “set aside” their differences and work with NHS Highland.
The Caithness Health Action Team (Chat) will take part in a new working group which will support the new midwife led maternity unit at Caithness General Hospital.
The campaigners said they will continue to battle for an alternative arrangement – but have said they will work with the health board to make the current set-up effective.
Chat secretary Nicola Sinclair said: “”Chat will continue to campaign for an alternative clinical model to the community midwife unit (CMU).
“However, issues such as accommodation and patient transport are relevant regardless of the outcome of our campaign and go much further than maternity.
“We are an ‘action’ team as well as a campaign group and, as such, we are determined to improve the situation for the majority of mums who are currently being sent to Raigmore.
“Made up of patients and staff ‘on the ground’, we hope this will be a practical group that will make quick, positive changes. We’re happy to set aside our differences and work together to that end.”
The working group will meet for the first time on Tuesday, February 28, in Wick where the group’s remit and membership will be agreed.
Its primary role will be to make practical improvements to patient experience, such as access to accommodation and ensuring safe and timely transfers.
Maimie Thompson, head of PR and engagement for NHS Highland said: “We have had a number of constructive meetings recently to help scope out some of the immediate actions and next steps.
“I will now be formally writing out to all community councils to invite them to nominate a representative. Similarly, I will formally contact Chat and Scottish Ambulance Service and ask them to put forward some nominations.”
Mary Burnside, lead midwife for north and west, said: “The staff are really keen to work with everyone to make sure everything works as planned. The midwives’ relationship with mums as well as staff in Raigmore is vital to support both planning and continuity of care.
“I have issued an open invitation for staff to join the group because I feel it is really important we move forward together. I am also pleased that we have had offers of support and input from senior colleagues working in our other CMUs and in Raigmore.”