By Lauren Evans

On International Day of the Midwife (5th May), Chief Nursing Officer for Wales, Sue Tranka announced the latest winners of her new excellence awards.

She met with the midwifery teams in Cardiff University and Cardiff and Vale University Health Board to celebrate midwives across Wales.

Sue said: “It’s important the midwifery profession is recognised for the vital role it plays in people’s lives. It’s been fantastic to hear about the commitment of colleagues across Wales and to celebrate the role of midwives, who are central to people’s maternity care.” 

One of the recipients, Donna James from Cardiff and Vale University Health Board is the first digital midwife in the health board. She was recognised for her transformative services and work in increasing safety for families by enhancing communication between them and the service.                          

Donna said: “Proud to receive the CNO Wales excellence award today! Such a surprise and I’m so grateful to work […] with the most supportive of colleagues.” 

Another highly-praised award recipient was the Snowdrop bereavement team at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, a specialist team of midwives providing bereavement support to parents and families experiencing pregnancy or baby loss in North Wales.

Since 2016, midwifery training places have almost doubled. Last year, Health Minister Vaughan Gething promised that a portion of the £16.4 million funds going towards health professions would aid a 14.5% increase in training places for nursing and midwifery. 

He said: “The Welsh Government is committed to providing the NHS the workforce it needs to meet ever increasing demand.”