MIDWIVES across Cumbria and the rest of the world are celebrating International Day of the Midwife 2022. 

The NHS Trust in north Cumbria is taking the opportunity to reflect on progress in midwifery and look ahead. They have also thanked the midwives, maternity support workers and student midwives who help to care for women, babies and families across Cumbria. 

The trust is investing in midwifery with plans to recruit overseas and the very first Midwifery apprenticeships will begin in September 2022. The apprenticeship will offer a new route into the career and is a first for the Trust.

READ MORE: NHS Trust hopes to increase the number of midwives in hospitals

Midwifery Matron Janet Riley said: “We’re thrilled to be able to offer apprenticeships for the first time, this is a great way to get into midwifery, learning practical skills alongside your academic studies. It opens the door for people who are looking for a different route into the role."

After having two children of her own, Sherrelle Smith knew she wanted to pursue her dream of becoming a midwife. Sherrelle completed a BSC Midwifery course at the University of Cumbria and qualified last September, she now works with the Midwifery Continuity of Carer Team at the Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle.

She said: "I have always wanted to be a midwife but after having my own two children I knew it was the career for me. I wanted to be part of a family’s journey from the start of pregnancy right through until baby was born. It is such a special time and I feel it is such a privilege to be with the women.

"I love everything about my job. You can leave the women in the room or at home with their birth partner and new baby knowing you have provided the best care and the women can start a new chapter as a mum."

Amanda Kennett Associate Director of Midwifery at NCIC added: "I’m extremely proud of our maternity teams here at NCIC, they are resilient, compassionate and extremely hard working.

"No one ever forgets their midwife and the difference they made. I want to thank all of our maternity teams, you are incredible today and every day."

READ MORE: 'Immensely proud' – Cumbria's midwives deliver 2,700 babies in year