Current job - I'm a rotational midwife based at Northern Lincolnshire & Goole Trust. I have been qualified for 9 years now and have rotated to delivery suite, community and ward 26 (antenatal & postnatal ward). I am currently based on ward 26 and have been there for the past 3 years. I also for the last 4 years have worked a secondment role for the HNY LMNS as Lead Prevention of Smoking in Pregnancy. 

What do you most enjoy in your role - I enjoy everything about the job! Particularly, having the privilege of caring for women throughout their pregnancy and birth journey. To be able to advocate for them and support them with knowledge, so they are to be able to make informed decisions. I love the autonomy of the role , I'm able to make decisions on my own and also prescribe medications appropriate to pregnancy, birth and postnatally. There is a great job satisfaction for me when women have complex needs or are ill during pregnancy and I'm there to care for them and help them. But the best part for me is being there for women and their partners the moment baby enters the world! It still gives me goosebumps and a sense of pride, that I get to do this and be there for women during birth, one of the best moments of their life!

What I did before - I have had numerous jobs prior to becoming a midwife, as I qualified at age 46! I have worked in sales, management, hair & beauty, newspaper advertising & as a jeweller. I had wanted to become a midwife for over 20 years before I started studying, so I never gave up on my dream!

Why I wanted to be a midwife -  I find this question difficult to answer, as I don't have a specific reason. About 30 years ago I just decided I wanted to become a midwife. I've always cared for others and naturally take on this role. So for me a job caring for others, helping and supporting them through every aspect antenatally, through their birth and postnatally appealed to me. It wasn't all about the birth part for me. I know it sounds corny, but I wanted a job with meaning, and to know that I had made a difference to people's lives.

Highlights of my career – There are so many special moments I've experienced in the 9 years I've been a Midwife.  Supporting those who feel unable to speak up about their care and advocating for them. Women who have been ill and I've helped push for investigations and diagnosis and seeing them get better because of that. Just in general, making that difference and giving every woman the best positive experience that I can, and them thanking me for it! 

What advice would I give to aspiring midwives - I think most people think it is a glamorous job and it's all about delivering babies! But it's much more than that. The main role is the care we give before and after baby is born. It is hard work and long hours, so dedication and tenacity are the core qualities that you will need. It is not for the faint-hearted, BUT it is one of the most rewarding jobs with the best job satisfaction, a job that is a privilege to be able to do!