Guidance for line managers and those supporting colleagues: after the investigation
The impact of an adverse clinical outcomes does not end when the investigation ends so remember to keep ‘checking-in’ with those affected. Avoid assuming that someone who appears to be coping does not need help.
Being a leader and supporting colleagues in these scenarios can be very demanding. It is important to also look after yourself. In addition to engaging in self-care, we can be more compassionate to ourselves and others. Being compassionate helps us be more understanding to ourselves and others when we are faced with challenges. A compassionate mind set can be created at an individual, team or leadership level. There is lots of research and resources available to support compassionate cultures in maternity care. The Anatomy of Compassion Padlet contains resources compiled by Clinical Psychologist with experience in neonatal and perinatal care to develop compassionate cultures in maternity care – Anatomy of Compassion: Links and Resources
The following resources offer opportunities and ideas to help you care for your workforce, foster a positive and compassionate workplace culture and strengthen your leadership practices in response to incidents in the workplace.
- A programme for the prevention of post-traumatic stress disorder (POPPY) – example of an intervention implemented at Liverpool Women’s Hospital and Kings College Hospital London which showed positive potential to improve midwives’ mental health and the sensitivity of care they provide. A programme for the prevention of post-traumatic stress disorder in midwifery (POPPY): indications of effectiveness from a feasibility study – PubMed
- The Relational Practice is the collaboration of two Clinical Psychologists. They can provide training such as taking a compassionate mind approach – Home | The Relational Practice
- Showing we care about Trauma-Informed practice – Lauren Wolfenden, Development Manager at Blackpool Better Start, considers the development of Trauma Informed Maternity and Perinatal Mental Health Services (TIMPS) Training.