On Wednesday 8th September five Swindon Sands committee members (Cathy Milburn, Rich Jones, Jan Davidson, Vicky Parker and Dave Millard) attended a 'baby loss' training session for Midwives and Midwifery Support Staff, being held at Royal United Hospital Bath. Despite the early start, and fast drive (thanks Rich!) it was an extremely worthwhile and valuable visit.
Katie from Bristol Sands was delivering the training session, presenting both her own personal story and sharing vital information on how Midwifery staff can support parents at a time of loss, whether that be during pregnancy, stillbirth or neonatal. Katie's presentation was excellent, really driving home the crucial role that Midwifes play to parents and families at a time of baby loss, and how they can positively impact the grieving process. The 40 minutes scheduled just didn't seem long enough to share the experiences which those in the room had been touched by, but the information that was shared seemed to be well received by the Midwifery staff. Katie is due to go on Maternity leave later this year and we are keen to continue her good work in Bath, so Swindon Sands are planning to deliver this training from November onwards. We are also hoping to deliver similar training into GWH, Swindon, beginning early 2011.
Whilst I'm sure we will all struggle to share our stories as part of the training, for anyone effected by the loss of the baby, we know how important getting the right level of compassionate care, support and guidance during this most devastating time in our lives. If through this training and sharing our personal experiences with the Midwifery staff, we can help them with what I'm sure is the most challenging part of their jobs, to provide a consistently high level of care and support to those effected by baby loss, we will have succeeded.
We all came away from the training in Bath raring to go, driven and motivated by our own personal stories. We will keep you updated as to how things progress later in the year with Bath and also as we move into 2011 and begin to work with GWH. In the mean time, on behalf of Swindon Sands, a massive thank you to Katie for the great grounding she has given us in Bath and also our fondest wishes as she prepares for her Maternity leave.
