A Suffolk hospital's maternity ward has experienced 174 'red flag events' this year including reports of unnecessary induction of labour.

According to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines, a midwifery "red flag event" is a warning sign that something may be wrong with midwifery staffing.

A Freedom of Information request found 174 red flag events and contributing factors were recorded between January and August within the West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust.

The full figures are not disclosed in cases where there are under five reports, due to the risk to patient confidentiality. 

During the period there is at least one unnecessary induction of labour occurred in July.

The decision to delivery time for a grade 2 caesarean section - where there is a threat to maternal or foetal condition - was also not met at least once in January.

The figures revealed that some of the highest number of red flag events are categorised as delays, both in commencing the induction of labour and transferring to the labour suite to continue the induction of labour.

It was explained that, in these cases, processes may be paused temporarily if they are unable to provide one-to-one care during labour in line with NICE recommended standards.

Several issues were also recorded under the 'labour suite coordinator being unable to maintain supernumerary status,' meaning they must have no caseload of their own during their shift.

This poses problems to the midwifery coordinator's provision of support and assistance to other midwives, but it was confirmed that no adverse outcomes had been identified as a result.

A spokesman for West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust said: "The Trust works hard to make sure the care it provides is safe and of the highest quality.

"Robust processes are in place so that any potential risks to patients are highlighted at the earliest opportunity and the necessary steps are taken to mitigate against the chance of these occurring.

"Red flag events in maternity services are an important part of our governance structure and allow our staff to highlight possible issues so they can be addressed.

"When these events occur, they are promptly reviewed so any learning or possible improvements are identified.

"This is an important part of our Speak Up cultures and ensures our staff feel comfortable and supported when bringing potential issues to the attention of senior colleagues."