Funding from NHS Charities Together supported Cardiff & Vale Health Charity to purchase birthing aids for the Midwifery Led Unit during the COVID-19 Pandemic.
The items purchased included two Multitrac Birthing Systems and five Birthing Stools, both of which are designed to support and encourage women to adopt upright, mobile positions for labour and birth.
Changes to pathways and the environment during the COVID-19 Pandemic were challenging for women and staff as areas had been adapted to cope with the situation. The Midwife Led Unit was required to close for a short period of time and become a COVID-19 support area. These changes impacted on morale for staff and a reduction in women using this service.
Suzanne Hardacre, who was Head of Midwifery/Lead Directorate Nurse at the time, felt the new equipment would create a welcoming environment for patients using the service and boost staff morale by providing them with equipment that will improve the experience of their patients.
With thanks to NHS Charities Together, these pieces of equipment will be appreciated by staff and patients for years to come.