Miscarriage care in Scotland: delivery framework
The delivery framework for Miscarriage Care in Scotland outlines a plan for introducing a graded model of miscarriage care. The Framework sets out 34 actions to help NHS Boards prioritise change locally and move to a ‘One Scotland’ approach.
Training
Aim
Appropriate training should be available to all healthcare professionals working in early pregnancy and recurrent miscarriage care. Training should emphasise the importance of compassionate care and, in particular, the central role of good and clear communication. On the job training is provided for nurses/midwives who start within Early Pregnancy Services, and all should follow the National Bereavement Care Pathway including the Miscarriage, Ectopic and Molar Pregnancy pathway.
Training should be provided on bereavement care, trauma care, and all midwives, obstetricians and gynaecologists are trained in pregnancy care at whatever gestation. There are a number of additional resources on bereavement and trauma informed care. Further links to these resources can be found below at Annex E.
Key Actions
32. NHS Boards should ensure staff receive training in providing compassionate, culturally competent care after miscarriage and other early pregnancy complications. Training should include supporting bereaved individuals, peer support for staff, and aligning with the NBCP Miscarriage, Ectopic and Molar Pregnancy Pathway.
33. NHS Boards should develop their bereavement counselling services towards offering counselling (including online platforms) to women who have experienced a miscarriage.
34. NHS Boards should ensure that those who experience miscarriage have access to culturally competent, trauma-informed and responsive services which embed the principles of choice, collaboration, empowerment, safety and trust. This means services which recognise the prevalence of trauma and its impact (including amongst their own staff) and which respond in ways that support recovery. It also means services that follow the key principles of trauma-informed care, that do not unintentionally retraumatise, and that allow individuals to easily access the appropriate care and support, including appropriate third sector support, which they need.