"They are both prime examples of excellent practitioners"

I have an extreme phobia to bloods and needles and found out I was expecting after a 9 year gap. My initial visit with my midwife I was feeling extremely anxious, tearful and scared. My first birth was very traumatic. Emotionally and physically I had taken a very long time to recover. 

My community midwife from the moment I met her could not do enough for me , she was supportive, caring and used all her links within the hospital to get me the right support with maternity psychology.

My psychologist Kirsten and Layla the community midwife both helped me navigate a very tricky pregnancy in terms of my emotional well being where my anxiety really became a barrier at times. 

After much discussion and plans I was to have a c section at 38 weeks . The day before being admitted I met with Layla, whom realised how nervous I was. She rang the planned section team and confirmed my times etc.

With not having immediate family in Scotland , and my husband needing to take my daughter to school, Layla organised to meet me to be admitted and settle me unto the ward . She completed all my initial tests/ forms ahead of surgery. Layla stayed with me while consultant anesthetist, went through the pre op chat.

By time my husband arrived, Layla had me calm and ready. Layla accompanied us to theatre and went above and beyond. I found being in theatre extremely overwhelming and as she had previously worked with this team she stayed with me throughout.

Layla was with me until I went to recovery. She handled my anxiety, worries and fears with so much compassion and care, it really was above and beyond her role and job. Layla never once made me feel unsafe or that I was being a hassle. (which I have had in the past). 

She has checked in with me since birth and will be doing my initial home visits . 

Between her and Kirsten (clinical psychologist), who also checked on me in postpartum ward I have felt so supported. I hope their service and care can be recognised within the NHS. They are both prime examples of excellent practitioners in their roles. 

I could not praise them enough. 

Another shout out would be to midwife Hambey, who worked on ward 68 on 18/4 night shift. A warm and compassionate midwife who made time for every single mum on the ward, feel safe, heard and cared for beyond my expectations and service that had been provided by others.