Two maternity support staff from our Trust have been awarded Chief Midwifery Officer Awards, recognising excellence in caring for women and their new babies.

Suzanne Thwaites and Shernez Farquharson were presented with their awards at a ceremony held on Tuesday 16 April.

Suzanne, a maternity care support worker has been working at our Trust for nine years. She was nominated for her invaluable wealth of knowledge and experience, and for always being willing to share her expertise with her colleagues and go the extra mile when needed. 

She said:

 “When I saw the email informing me about the award I was in shock and could not believe it. I was overwhelmed and very proud.

“When I heard Shernez was getting an award too, I was even more proud as when she first started working in Maternity, I was the one who looked after her for her first few weeks. Kindness, compassion and a good heart go a long way and this award shows I have been doing this and more. I am very grateful for being nominated.”

Shernez Farquharson, who has been in her current role for over two years was nominated for her commitment to providing excellent care to women and their babies, and ensuring families feel listened to.

She said:

“I have always been interested in maternity care, so after giving birth to my son and spending a few weeks at Queen’s Hospital, I knew that I wanted to work there.

“It has been fantastic working alongside a team that cared for me when I needed it the most. Now, I have the opportunity to pay it forward by supporting my team and families with their new babies. It is so rewarding.”

The Chief Midwifery Officer Awards recognise the vital contribution of maternity support workers across the country, including the support they provide to our midwives.

Sue Calder, Antenatal Clinics and Inpatient Matron, who nominated both Suzanne and Shernez, said:

“This is fantastic news. I am extremely proud of them for their hard work and dedication to the women we care for, and their families. They are passionate about improving our maternity services and it’s a privilege to have them as part of our team.”

The awards ceremony was held at Thistle Marble Arch, London and were presented by Jane Clegg, Regional London Chief Nurse NHS England.