Southend Hospital recognised for giving babies the best start in life
Southend Hospital has again achieved the highest level of recognition from the UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative for the outstanding support it provides to families during pregnancy, birth and early parenthood.
Gold status is awarded to maternity services that show excellent infant feeding support is part of everyday care and has been sustained over many years.
Independent assessors review staff training, leadership and quality improvement work. They also speak directly to parents and staff to ensure families are receiving compassionate, evidence-based support.
Victoria Hopley Bridgey, Lead Specialist Infant Feeding Midwife at Southend Hospital, said: “This achievement reflects years of dedication, passion and teamwork across our maternity service. The Gold Award gives families confidence that they will receive expert support, informed guidance and personalised care, helping to give every baby the best possible start in life.
"It shows that high-quality infant feeding support and family-centred care are at the heart of everything we do. Every member of our team has played a part in this success, and we remain committed to continually improving the care and support we provide to families."
Last year the team welcomed more than 3,000 babies at Southend Hospital, supported by a dedicated midwifery team.