"Thanks team for a beautiful experience from start to finish!"

The maternity service at the Belford is incredible, I didn't know it could be that good anywhere! The team are so lovely, caring and knowledgeable (I didn't meet everyone, but those who worked with me were fantastic!) and from the moment of calling for the first appointment, to the support and advice given when I had concerns, the information and care I received every step of the way was faultless.

Fay was our main midwife, and gave us a wealth of information to make us feel empowered and so positive about the experience from start to finish, and gave us the tools to rethink the way we've been taught to think about pregnancy and birth. She went above and beyond and the whole experience was shaped so positively by her. She also provided the hypnobirthing course to us which helped my whole pregnancy massively - especially when the labour itself didnt go to plan, the hypnobirthing techniques were invaluable for keeping calm through the whole thing. My partner and I couldn't recommend her highly enough if we tried.

For the birth itself we had the fantastic care and support from Elaine, Pam (who also travelled with me in the ambulance to Raigmore - thank you!) and the young student midwife, Ellie. They all respected my birth plan and gave me my space, whilst also being a great comfort and offering their professional recommendations when needed which was really appreciated.

An extra special mention to Ellie, who sat by my side at the birthing pool at home for hours on end, offering gentle, non-invasive encouragement, care, love and support. She also gave very professional ante-natal/post-natal appointments. Ellie will be an incredible midwife!

Ishy and Gail - also worth mentioning for being so lovely, and finally, we also got some great breastfeeding support from Kim at home, who provided us with new techniques to try and advice which has been so helpful for our journey.

Thanks team for a beautiful experience from start to finish! Xx