YOUR QUESTIONS...

Does that mean that more cases of serious harm have been identified?

‘The additional cases are not all serious incidents and it is anticipated that areas of good practice will be identified as well as opportunities for improvement.’

Will all self-referrals be clinically reviewed?

‘A commitment has been given that all cases will be looked at if an individual has raised concerns. A process has been agreed with the Health Board to determine how self-referrals are considered in those cases which do not fall within the clinical review criteria agreed by the Panel. It is important to note that some cases may require a review but not necessarily a clinical one.’

How will I know if my case is being clinically reviewed?

‘You will be contacted to let you know that your case is one of those included within the 2016-18 look-back. We hope to begin doing this from November onwards. From here you will be able to decide whether you wish to remain engaged in the process moving forward and, if so, in what way. We will explain the process and what this means for you, as well as how any feedback will be provided.’

What are the timescales for the reviews?

‘We are planning for the first phase of the clinical review programme to be commenced by the end of November 2019.

‘This will remain an evolving process and consequently it would be inappropriate for us to estimate timescales. We are sorry we cannot provide you with further information at this time.

‘It is vital this work is completed thoroughly and so depends on availability of external independent reviewers. We can assure you it is being taken forward as quickly as possible.’

Will I receive compensation?

‘All cases will be reviewed in accordance with the Putting Things Right arrangements including the provision of redress where this is appropriate.

‘The panel’s role is to ensure that any serious incidents which have occurred are properly investigated and that appropriate improvements have taken place. We will advise the health board where cases should be considered for Redress.’

Is the panel’s approach to clinical reviews disproportionate?

‘No. The inclusion criteria are comparable to other reviews undertaken in the UK, and are those which the Panel’s clinicians believe will enable lessons to be learned and services to be improved for women and families.’