Write a comment
Twenty one newly qualified midwives have joined the Southern Trust, marking a significant boost for maternity services across the region.
The arrivals strengthen a workforce of over 200 midwives who provide care for expectant mothers and their families throughout Newry and Mourne, Armagh, Dungannon, Craigavon and Banbridge. The service encompasses everything from community clinics and home births to hospital-based care, supporting women at every stage of their journey into motherhood.
Consultant Midwife Mairead
Among the new recruits is Emma, who is continuing a family tradition by following her mother into the profession. For Emma, accepting the position represented more than just a career milestone. "I trained in both the community in South Tyrone and at Craigavon. It was a great place to study, and I am delighted to be back - it just feels like family," she explained. "Growing up, I watched my mum go through her studies and career as a midwife and she inspired me to carry on that legacy."
The new midwives have spent their first week being inducted into the Trust by experienced colleagues, receiving practical training alongside valuable advice to help them settle into their roles. The majority completed their training at Queen's University Belfast, undertaking clinical placements within the Southern Trust over three years, whilst others gained experience in different healthcare trusts across the region and Ireland.
Clinical Skills Midwife Katrina McCullough emphasised the achievement the new recruits had already demonstrated. "Our new recruits have already accomplished so much to complete their midwifery studies, and we're delighted that they have decided to join our team at the Southern Trust, where we will support them to flourish and thrive in their careers," she said.
Wendy Clarke, Head of Midwifery and Gynaecology, formally welcomed the group, noting their potential impact on local services. "These new midwives bring fresh energy, dedication and compassion to our team, perfectly reflecting our vision of delivering high-quality patient-centred care. Their commitment to learning and development aligns with our strategy to build a skilled, innovative workforce that meets the changing needs of our communities."
Following their induction, the midwives will embark on an eighteen-month post-registration programme split between Craigavon and Daisy Hill hospitals. The structured programme will develop their clinical expertise across various specialisms including community care, antenatal services, delivery suite work, the midwifery led unit, the Birth at Home Team, and postnatal support.
