Research midwives are improving patient lives
Today (Tuesday 5 May) is International Day of the Midwife and this year Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust is shining a spotlight on its research midwives.
Rosie Nicol is a Research Midwife at Broomfield Hospital and supports families through some of the most important moments of their lives, whilst also helping shape the future of maternity care through her research work.
Many imagine maternity research as paperwork and computer screens, but Rosie’s work is hands‑on and very much centred around patients.
She said:
I spend my days on the wards, talking with those who may be eligible for studies, explaining what taking part involves, and supporting them if they choose to join. I make sure research fits naturally into their care.
Rosie’s work supports several studies, including the Generation Study, a national project offering genetic screening through cord blood, and the OBS UK obstetric haemorrhage study, which has helped reduce blood transfusions across the Trust and improve how haemorrhage is managed, leading to safer care for patients.
Staying close to patients isn’t just part of her job, it’s part of who she is. Rosie has been a midwife for almost a decade and says she always knew the role would suit her.
She said: “I was just drawn to it; it always felt like something I’d be good at. I see research as a way to broaden my skills and stay close to the people I care for.”
Paula Hollis, Head of Midwifery and Gynaecology at Broomfield Hospital, said:
Our research midwives play a huge part in how our maternity services grow and improve. The research they support helps us deliver safer, better care, and I’m incredibly grateful for the dedication they bring to our families.
The Trust has over 650 midwives working across the hospitals and in the community and works with Anglia Ruskin University to offer placements to student midwives.
People interested in midwifery as a profession can find out about learning opportunities here: