Every NHS hospital trust in England that provides maternity services is carrying out this survey as part of a national programme led by the Healthcare Commission.
The survey results will contribute to the Annual Health Check due to be published by the Healthcare Commission in 2008 and provide evidence for the national review of maternity services.
Locally, the results will be used to help the Trust identify areas where it performs well and areas where it could improve women's experiences of care.
Women who had a baby at Salisbury District Hospital or at home during January and February 2007 may receive a questionnaire, asking for their views. They will be asked about various aspects of their experiences including their antenatal care, tests and scans, care during labour and birth, infant feeding, care after the birth in hospital and at home.
Caroline Brunt, Head of Maternity and Neonatal Services said: "We hope that women will take the time to help us with this survey. This is an excellent way for women to help shape the services we provide in the future and their views are vital in helping us to find out how we are doing and where we may need to make improvements."
The results of this survey will be published in September and on the Healthcare Commission website (http://www.healthcarecommission.org.uk). Ends
For further information please contact: Patrick Butler, Public Relations Manager, Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust, SP2 8BJ. Tel: 01722 425170