MIDWIVES from Worcestershire have been shortlisted for a national award.

Team Ruby and Team Sapphire, the new continuity of carer midwives, have been nominated for Team of the Year in the Royal College of Midwives awards.

The roll out of the continuity of carer midwives started earlier this year. The idea being that more mums-to-be see their named midwife, or a midwife from a small team, right through their pregnancy up to the birth.

Reverend Christobel Hargraves , chair of Herefordshire and Worcestershire Local Maternity System, said: “The safe delivery of a child and the health of the mother during this process are paramount and have been since the beginning of time. However, there are unfortunately too many incidents during pregnancy and delivery that have a long term effect on families. Many users of our maternity services have good stories to tell about their experiences but sadly there are some who do not.We need to ensure that mothers are as informed as they possibly can be in order to play their part in ensuring the delivery of a healthy baby.”

The teams recently showcased their service at a continuity of carer day giving practising midwives and student midwives a chance to hear how this way of working is having a positive impact on both the staff in terms of job satisfaction, and families who often form a strong bond with their midwife.

Caitlin Wilson, Consultant Midwife and lead for the Continuity of Carer work, said: “Continuity of carer and the relationship between caregiver and receiver has been proven to lead to better outcomes and safety for woman and babies, as well as offering a more positive and personal experience.

“It forms a key part of Better Births which set out a vision for maternity services in England which are safe and personalised; that put the needs of the women, her baby and family at the heart of care; with staff who are supported to deliver high quality care which is continuously improving.

“I’m absolutely thrilled that the teams have been recognised nationally and wish them the best of luck at the awards.”

Winners will be announced at a glittering awards ceremony on Tuesday, May 5. Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust is currently piloting two further continuity of carer teams, with plans in place for a further five teams in the coming months.

To find out more please visit: www.birthways.nhs.uk