AN MP has said maternity services require 'immediate attention' following an investigation into Somerset hospitals.
Gideon Amos, MP for Taunton and Wellington, raised his concerns following the publication of the National Maternity and Neonatal Investigation on June 30.
The report highlights concerns at the Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, including care at Musgrove Park Hospital.
Mr Amos said: "This report has laid bare the crumbling state of Musgrove Park Hospital, particularly its maternity unit.
"The experience some patients have had is unacceptable – it requires immediate attention, and I will continue holding the trust to account on the improvements needed in maternity services."
The report described poor conditions at the hospital, including leaking roofs and inadequate temperature control.
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Mr Amos said: "I’ve seen for myself the leaking roofs and poor temperature control the report refers to.
"Waiting until 2033 for a new unit is far too late.
"The Health Secretary needs to visit and see for himself why this project urgently needs to be brought forward."
In the report, it said: "The estate at Musgrove Park presents a significant challenge to providing safe, dignified and compassionate care and there was clear concern about how this was affecting women, birthing people and families.
"Many parts of the estate at Musgrove Park are old and not designed to deliver twenty-first century care.
"There were leaking roofs, poor temperature control with rooms often too hot or too cold, and the ceiling of the antenatal ward was propped up by metal poles."
In response to the findings, Dr Melanie Iles, chief medical officer for Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, said: "We thank the women, families, and colleagues who shared their experiences with the national investigation.
"We also thank the investigation team.
"Their work will help us continue improving our maternity and neonatal services.
"It is very difficult to read the experiences of women, families and birthing partners, and of colleagues working in our maternity and neonatal services.
"We say sorry to anyone who has had a traumatic experience, been let down, not been listened to, or been harmed by our services."
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