Midwives appeal for essentials to help new mums

A group of midwives have launched an appeal to support new mums and babies with essential care items.

The midwives, based on the Women's and Newborn Unit at Bradford Royal Infirmary, started the maternity care cupboard in 2023. It offers toiletries, baby blankets and clothes donated by staff and the community.

Sophie Wainman and Kate Hurley began gathering essentials after they were unable to help a mum who needed deodorant and shampoo - but recently found the cupboard bare, so are seeking fresh donations.

"We realised that we wanted to do all in our power to help preserve dignity and hygiene for those new mums who don't have much," said Wainman.

The cupboard offers everything from bodywash, toothbrushes and toothpaste to clothes, crocheted blankets and breast pumps.

"The cupboard is free at the point of access, just like the NHS," Wainman said.

"If someone is in need and they haven't got essential baby and care items, then we just come to the cupboard and get it.

"It's not just for the postnatal wards but is for the whole unit and wider community, so if any area needs something for one of their women or babies, they can come and get it.

"It could be for one thing or it could be for 10 things. It is for everyone in need."

They have made a fresh appeal to the community and local businesses to donate items.

"Unfortunately there are a lot of people whose birth experiences aren't always positive and they've not maybe got the best home life or they've escaped domestic violence or they're struggling with health," Wainman said.

"So sometimes people just don't have a lot. And sometimes people have gone into labour quickly and not packed anything.

"Even if it's someone's forgotten to pack a toothbrush, just ask us, we'll give it. If you need something, ask for it."

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