WHAT IS AN INDEPENDENT MIDWIFE?

Independent Midwives are fully qualified, registered midwives who have undergone the same level of midwifery education and training as their NHS colleagues. We have chosen to provide care outside of the NHS in order to provide women and their families with one-to-one women-centred care. Sadly, financial restrictions and a national shortage of midwives make this personalised care unfeasible within the NHS.

Contrary to popular belief, a pregnant woman does not have to see a doctor antenatally, nor is a doctor required to be at the birth. Midwives are experts in providing care for women throughout their pregnancy, birth and as they adapt to parenthood and are thus highly skilled a recognising any deviation from the norm and are able to refer appropriately if this is required.

Independent midwives have the ability to choose how many women they care for each year. Generally, I prefer to look after a maximum of two women per month, which means that I am able to give my full time and attention to the women I care for. The pregnancy and birth of a baby does not only affect the mother, the whole family is touched by this wonderful experience. Therefore, your antenatal visits are an opportunity for me to build a relationship based on trust with you and your family, helping all of you adjust to having a new little person in your lives.

Midwifery is the most regulated profession in the UK and this is the same whether we practice independently or within the NHS. All midwives, independent or NHS based, are registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council, which is our govenrning body and are bound by The Midwives Rules and Standards and Code of Professional Conduct which ensures that we practice in a safe and professional manner. We must remain updated with current research based practice to stay registered.

Independent midwives charge a fee which reflects the professional and holistic service we provide. Currently, all independent midwives practice without professional indemnity insurace, as there is none available globally.