Healthcare Inspectorate Wales (HIW) has issued a report on the Maternity Unit within Prince Charles Hospital in Merthyr Tydfil, which is used by many Powys mothers.

Following an unannounced inspection, the report praises several improvements since their last visit in September 2022, but highlights concern over staffing levels and morale.

Maternity services were inspected over three days in January 2024, and inspectors commended staff for working hard to provide positive patient experiences.

However, an immediate assurance notice was issued due to patient safety risk.

The notice is for low staffing levels on night shifts, and the cupboards that have hazardous substances inside them.

They need to address the low staffing levels, and they need to make sure that the cupboards are securely locked the report has said.

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Despite the staffing challenge, inspectors found significant improvements in other areas.

They observed respectful and professional interactions between staff and patients, with ample facilities and amenities.

Patients expressed that they were treated with dignity and kindness.

The inspectors also saw evidence that patient choices were valued and acted upon, even if they fell outside national guidelines, with risk assessments and plans in place.

Insufficient staffing levels, however, appeared to cause delays in pain relief administration.

The unit has specialist midwives, robust security measures for babies, and good infection and prevention control measures, but there remains discontent among the staff about management's engagement and visibility.

Alun Jones, Chief Executive of HIW, said: "It was positive to see significant improvement has been made since our previous inspection, with many instances of good practice.

"However, the health board must ensure there is adequate resourcing on the wards."

The HIW will continue to engage with Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board to ensure further progress.