The Job
Sometimes known as maternity healthcare support workers, these staff work under the supervision of qualified midwives and assist in the care of mothers and babies.
Maternity support workers (MSWs) have a range of responsibilities which will vary, depending on the exact role. These will be done under supervision of a qualified midwife, and would usually include such tasks as:
- taking blood samples for testing
- making routine observations (such as temperature, pulse, blood pressure, and breathing)
- maintaining accurate records and other administrative duties
- maintaining stock levels of stationery and equipment
- participating in parent education (this could be on a group or individual basis)
- preparing equipment
- clearing up after sessions
They work in a variety of settings including:
- in the community
- acute post-natal wards
- maternity theatre
- delivery suite
- midwifery led units
They need to be able to cope with emergency situations as well as more straightforward labour.
Pay:
£14,000 – £18,000
Hours:
Full and part time hours are available. You will need to be flexible and be able to work some weekends, night or day shifts.
Qualifications:
Maternity Support Workers will normally need a good general education – maybe with NVQ level 2 or equivalent qualifications.
Babyem provides Maternity courses including: Postnatal Maternity Nurse Award, Postnatal Depression (PND) . Babyem also provide childcare courses in areas such as Paediatric first aid courses and the Common Core Skills & Knowledge for Ofsted registration.