29th March 2024
Earlier this month Belfast Trust midwives Gillian Campbell and Barbara Gergett were recognised for their roles at the Mariposa Trust’s annual Mariposa Ball in London.
The Mariposa Trust provides free support to people affected by baby loss, pregnancy after baby loss, fertility, adoption and more. The Trust has become the leading support charity in this field, reaching over 50,000 people a week globally.
Looking to recognise the incredible midwives who form the backbone of maternity care, Gillian was nominated for the Midwife of the Year Award and was presented with a Special Recognition award on the night.
Barbara had been shortlisted for the Bereavement Midwife of the Year category highlighting the impact and excellent work of the Bereavement Midwives. Barbara received an Outstanding Contribution Award at the glittering occasion.
Gillian said it was privilege to be nominated for the work she provides. She said: “To be nominated by a family in our care means so much to me and I was honoured to attend the Mariposa Ball.
“It is my privilege to walk alongside a family, to provide support and sensitive care, and help them feel less alone on their bereavement journey.”
Barbara explained that recognition for her work was humbling. She said: “There are mixed emotions on being nominated for an award.
“It is very special to be part of a family’s story but there is also a poignancy as you remember the devastating impact of the loss of their baby.”
Belfast Trust Head of Midwifery, Brenda Kelly congratulated both Bereavement Midwives on receiving their awards. She said: “Congratulations to both Barbara and Gillian. It is wonderful to see our Bereavement Midwives recognised nationally for the work they do. Every day, they provide incredible care to our service users and families, supporting many through extremely distressing and challenging circumstances. We are very grateful to both for their dedication and constant support for mothers and families, they truly are Earth Angels.”
Charity Founder and Co-CEO Zoe Clark-Coates MBE said, “Heartbreakingly, around 700 babies die every day in the UK, whether that’s in pregnancy, birth or infancy. Despite baby loss affecting so many each year, it is still not widely spoken about, which can leave families struggling for support. The Mariposa Trust exists to ensure that each baby that has gone too soon is recognised and that the parents, extended family, and friends receive the support they need for as long as they need it.”
Belfast Trust Childbirth and Loss midwives provide extra support to women and families who have experienced a loss at any stage while being cared for by our maternity and community services. You can find out more about them on the Belfast Trust website under Bereavement Support Service.