The responses from to our one to one campaigners have been flooding into our inbox! Below is a small selection of them, from health care providers, politicians and policymakers.

So far we have received replies from all the Health Boards in Scotland, four Primary Care Trusts (PCTs) in England and three Local Health Boards in Wales.

“Bliss is a proactive and well respected organisation that continues to work closely with us. I am pleased that Bliss continues to highlight the needs of these vulnerable babies.” PCT Chief Executive

Thank you to all our campaigners for sending in replies from politicians and policymakers. Please continue to support the campaign by sending in any responses to actionforbliss@bliss.org.uk

England

In England, the Department of Health has been replying to campaigners and highlighting the ongoing work of the NHS Neonatal Taskforce, which is expected to report in June 2009. Bliss is pleased to be involved with the work of the Taskforce, but we know that a lot more work is required by the Department of Health and the NHS to ensure that the most vulnerable babies receive the best possible care.

Former health minister Ann Keen MP, who has responsibility for maternity services, has also responded to the campaign with a reply to a letter from the National Council for Child Health and Well-being.

Scotland

In Scotland, campaigners have been receiving this response from the Scottish Government, reasserting their commitment to sick and premature babies. NHS Scotland is developing a workload and workforce tool which will allow neonatal units to plan care more effectively for the most vulnerable babies.

Wales

Welsh Health Minister Edwina Hart replied to campaigners, and has recently announced £4m funding across two years for Welsh neonatal care. Then, in December 2008 the All Wales Neonatal Standards were published. This is an ambitious and comprehensive document, which, if implemented, monitored and audited annually, would set an example for the rest of the UK.

Northern Ireland

In Northern Ireland, the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety recently initiated a review of the nursing and midwifery workforce. Bliss met the Department in December 2008, and we look forward to working closely with them to achieve the best outcomes for Northern Ireland’s sick and premature babies.