I have always believed in women’s ability to give birth to their babies, as it is a normal bodily function for which we have been well designed. I support women  to give birth in a way which feels natural to them. I have a calm and gentle way of working which is very popular with my clients, and am experienced in home birth, waterbirth and vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC). 

Independent Midwives 

 The definition of an Independent Midwife according to the Independent Midwives Association is that we are fully qualified midwives who, in order to practice the midwife’s role to its fullest extent, have chosen to work outside the NHS in a self employed capacity, although supporting its aims and ideals. See www.independentmidwives.org.uk

Why choose independent care?

Independent Midwives have been called "angels without wings" and "the Rolls-Royce of birth assistants" By Emma Mahony in her book called 'Stand and Deliver, and other brilliant ways to give birth'

 

• Independent care provides a high level of care and support, tailored to suit your individual needs.

• I provide total midwifery care from early pregnancy, through birth and at least 4 weeks postnatally. NHS midwives usually discharge women after one week.

• You can get to know and trust one midwife, building a personal relationship based on mutual trust.

• I can support you if the NHS is unable to do so, for example supporting your plans for a home birth, water birth or vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC).

• I offer continuity of care, and empower women to make informed choices and decisions at every stage.

• A large proportion of my bookings are for homebirths, and the rest are for planned hospital births.

• Should the planned place of birth or type of care need to change at any time, I can help you to make the transition as smoothly and peacefully as possible.

• I can accompany you into hospital and stay with you throughout the birth, as your advocate.

• I liaise with other healthcare practitioners, if and when necessary.  I can arrange screenings and diagnostic tests, such as scans and blood tests, either through the NHS or privately.

• At your birth you will have the care and full attention of one (and possibly two midwives). I will not be looking after several other labouring women as can happen in the NHS. 

• You can choose the right midwife for you and the right type of care.

 

Safety

Midwifery is one of the most securely regulated professions in the UK. All practising midwives must adhere to the Midwives' Rules, which are enshrined in the 1902 Midwives Act, and subsequent amendments. All independent midwives are subject to yearly supervisory visits and equipment checks and must notify their NHS appointed Supervisor of Midwives of their "Intention to Practise" each year. In line with the requirements of our regulatory body, the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), we are required to ensure that our clinical practice is up to date and that our actions are within our sphere of competence.