"The staff were very friendly and helpful..."

What I liked

The staff were very friendly and helpful - especially the receptionist who helped me to get out on time.

What could be improved

I visited the ante-natal department for a scan and midwife appointment last week. Having had previous experiences of waiting over an hour an a half during previous pregnancies at afternoon clinics, I was really pleased that I had the first appointment of the morning (08:30).

However, no staff (except on reception) turned up until 08:50 and I wasn't seen until 08:55 - a little ridiculous to be nearly half an hour behind for the first appointment - no wonder the afternoon ones run late.

On leaving scan, there were around 8 people in the waiting room so I asked at the desk what would happen next as I has another appointment to get to in the morning. I was told that I would 'have a wait' because the midwives were having a meeting - again, where is the sense in holding meetings when there are appointments scheduled?

Fortunately, the receptionist was really helpful and had a word with someone so that I could leave without seeing a midwife.

Anything else?

I would just like to add that my last baby was delivered at Oldham - not in the delivery suite but on mat 1 because the midwife refused to send me upstairs even though I was in the middle of pushing. The ward was not clean and gave the distinct impression that it was being left to rot in the wait for the new unit (which at that time was 4 years away).

I've recently been to look around another local infirmary which was clean and bright and I'll be transferring my care this time.