Hospital starts volunteer scheme to help new mothers (From Haringey Independent)

Hospital starts volunteer scheme to help new mothers

1:23pm Wednesday 9th February 2011 in Health By Tristan Kirk

WOMEN in Haringey are being asked to volunteer to pass on their childcare experiences to new mothers.

The North Middlesex Hospital is running a pilot scheme encouraging mothers to pass on tips on breastfeeding, how to cope with parenthood, and signs to report to a health worker.

The hospital says it is embracing the Big Society idea by asking mothers to give up a couple of hours a week to join the scheme.

Theresa Murphy, nursing director at the Edmonton hospital, said: “The government is talking about the Big Society - how local people can help each other for the good of the local community in which they live.

“What better way than for experienced mothers to give support and reassurance to those that are perhaps daunted by this massive change in their lives?

“Though it’s only a few hours of your time, the support you will provide could make a huge difference to the lives of new mothers and their families.”

Anyone who volunteers for the project will be given professional advice from midwives. If you are interested, you can contact consultant midwife Kanta Patel on 07921 875 048 or email kanta.patel@nmh.nhs.uk.