Ms Mary Gorman:

In regard to the midwifery-led unit, MLU, a committee member asked about audits and about how it was perceived. I am lucky enough to work in a unit that has one of the two midwifery-led units in the country. Research into the MedU trial showed that the outcomes for women were comparable with the same population within the consultant-led unit, but that women valued the experience more within the MLU. Internationally, it is recognised that they are as safe within that group of women, if not a bit safer. It is recommended as a way forward. Furthermore, there are ongoing audits within the unit, so they are audited in the same way as the consultant-led units within each of the units.