About the PQN network
All mother and baby units, and a growing number of community perinatal teams are in the network.
We work with network members to share best practice at a national level. We use a review and accreditation process to promote the highest level of care.
Stage 1: You complete a self-review
The first stage of the process is when you, the service, complete a self-review and send this information to us.
The self-review is done using an online system which guides you through the process step by step.
If you have applied for accreditation, you will be given additional questionnaires for patients, carers, staff and others to complete. You will have two months to complete your self-review.
Stage 2: The review team visit your service
After you submit your self-review, a review team will visit your service.
The review team typically consists of members of the CCQI, a patient representative, and health and social care professionals from other perinatal mental health services.
The health and social care professionals usually include three of the following:
- a psychiatrist
- a psychologist
- an occupational therapist
- a social worker
- a mental health nurse
- other mental health professionals.
On a review day, the review team will discuss any challenges that you identified during your self-review and offer advice where possible.
They’ll also interview patients, family/partners, and other agencies that you work with to get an overall view of the care provided.
The day is an excellent opportunity for you to reflect on your current practice and ask for guidance from the review team.
Not only does the host team benefit from the day, but the review team can take learning back to their services, which facilitates quality improvement for everyone involved.
Stage 3: After review day
After the review day, you will be sent an individual report which combines your self-review with the findings from the day, including the strengths and advice on any challenges.
If your service has applied for accreditation, we’ll present the evidence to the PQN Accreditation Committee who will decide whether your service will be accredited.
Benefits of being a member include:
- Sharing great practice with the review team and getting advice on any challenges you’re facing
- A report focused on your service
- Being part of the PQN discussion group: post queries and offer advice to staff at other services
- Attending Special Interest Days and study days
- Reduced rates to attend the PQN Annual Forum, where we present the latest nationwide results and a programme of interesting speakers
- A certificate of participation which can be displayed on your unit
- Access to the POEM (patient-rated outcome and experience measure)
Membership cost for 2025 is £3,425 + VAT per year. If you sign up for three years, you will be eligible for a 5% discount.
