Healthcare Careers

Midwifery

What is it?

Everyone knows midwives deliver babies. But not everyone knows they do a lot more besides.

Many people think being a midwife is all about being at the birth of a child, helping the mother and her partner as a new life begins.

That’s true, but the job goes well beyond that. You’re the professional who works with mum, her partner and maybe her family in pregnancy.

You help people get ready to be parents. You’re involved in postnatal care too. You offer support, education and advice to help the baby and its family get off to a good start.

(By the way, you don’t have to be female! There are more than 100 male midwives in the UK)

What are the good bits?

• Working closely with individuals and families
• You’re lead professional in the management of birth
• When you study Midwifery at university, your tuition fees are paid
• Lots of opportunities – travel, progressing to consultant level

What about pay?

£19,000 - £61,000

What skills and interests do I need?

• Communication, caring, helping
• Able to work independently and in teams
• Calm, plenty of stamina
• Practical and dedicated

What qualifications/training will I need?

There are different ways to become a midwife. You can study for a diploma or a degree. You need to be at least 18, and have GCSEs or the equivalent in vocational qualifications (like NVQs or BTEC National Diplomas). For a degree you first need qualifications like A levels or AVCEs in science and/or a health-related subject.

Compiled with reference to:
www.nhscareers.nhs.uk
www.nobarriers2uni.org

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