We are beginning a single number service - same no. throughout the
UK, directed to nearest counsellor, with a back up team for when all
the three neaest counsellors are unable to answer the cal. We intend
to have it operational only until 8pm. The service will exist
alongside the normal service where mothgers have our own home numbers
- and yes, occasionally they do call at 'awkward' times. I have had
some very late at night calls and some very early in the morning
ones, and one on Christmas day - but these are rare. I have never
been awoken in the middle of the night....yet!

The good thing about community health care in the UK is that it is
free for everyone, and mothers can call a midwife at any time, day or
night, and also get GP help at any time (though this will be a
deputising service, and they are not known for good bf information -
some of the worst info in my 'collection' of what doctors tell
mothers comes from the deputising services). I do urge mothers to
make use of their right to midwifery help in the night - they will
get a home visit if they need it.

Part of the job (in the UK, anyway) of volunteers is to help mothers
ask the right questions of their healthcare providers, and to feel ok
about using their services.

Heather Welford Neil
NCT bfc Newcastle upon Tyne UK

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