Prestigious award for 'role model' maternity support worker 

A “patient and compassionate” maternity support worker from University Hospitals Dorset (UHD) has won a coveted award from the Royal College of Midwives (RCM), recognising the importance and value of her role in providing holistic care to women and their families.

Kerry Horley, who was described as a “quiet leader” by her peers, recently took on the role of assistant practitioner in the trust, leading on maternity support worker (MSW) development. She was also recognised for developing this role significantly, taking the lead for training maternity support workers within Maternity.

Kerry has advanced the local maternity induction programme for new MSWs joining the trust and has been working closely with the recruitment and retention midwife to find ways of attracting and keeping new MSWs.

The RCM’s Chief Executive, Gill Walton, said: “By working with new MSWs, Kerry empowers them to be able to provide the best care possible. She recognised there was a gap in their knowledge and skill set due to not having a local breastfeeding lead, so she reached out to the local university to provide this training.

“She works hard to ensure the new starters are equipped with all the training and skills they need to perform their job effectively, reviewing them regularly, supporting with probationary reviews and assessing their care certificate and maternity passport skills.

“Kerry is a shining example in the way she actively seeks out learning opportunities and grabs them with both hands to develop herself in order to fulfil her job role and exceed expectations.”

Kerry said: “The awards ceremony was an uplifting experience with so much positivity, and it was great to hear how other MSWs have contributed to maternity care services nationally.”

“When you feel all of the pressures of work, this award has really highlighted how worthwhile it is to be recognised for your efforts, and it’s been so lovely to know how much of a difference my role has made to the maternity support worker team.”

Congrats, Kerry!