It’s been an interesting start to the year with me appearing on the BBC Panorama ‘Midwives Under Pressure’ and BBC world news. You can watch the documentary via the QR code below.
This is of course an issue I feel very passionate about, and much of our research focusses upon the topics raised. It is hard and uncomfortable to talk about these issues, but nevertheless, we must continue to push forward. It is too important not to.
I received some backlash for appearing on the programme, but the majority of feedback was overwhelmingly positive. The programme itself generated much discussion about the issues raised, and I hope it also brought about some reflection in us all. There are always pushes and pulls in the media to take a certain angle on things. Nevertheless, its important we all move away from blame cultures and toward compassionate learning cultures in this.
I hear of negative consequences for healthcare workers speaking out, both through people who tell me their experiences and through the research we do. These issues were also raised on the programme. Whilst it is always important to speak out and escalate where we see concern, it is also important to avoid using referral to regulators as a threat, or making malicious allegations without genuine concern. It undermines the process and may cause harm. Thankfully, these kind of issues are recognised early and are often thrown out. Conversely, real concerns are often not heard when they need to be. Perhaps this is reflective of people’s need to protect reputations? in response to fear? a symptom of poor leadership? a result of toxic cultures?
There is certainly much to unpack here and we are working hard to secure change. What are your thoughts on this? I would love to hear more on this conversation.
Until next time…Look after yourselves and each other
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Dr Sally Pezaro 