Current job: I am a rotational Maternity Support Worker (MSW) - currently based on labour ward. I have been based on the delivery suite for 7 months and absolutely love helping support the woman and their families at such a magical time in their lives. I work with my team to deliver the best holistic care, and support with everything from scribing during emergencies to breastfeeding.

What inspired you to become an MSW: I was inspired to take this role on when I was first introduced to the world of midwifery as a domestic cleaner at 18 years old. I was in awe of the work of Midwifery Assistants and Midwives and was eager to get my hands on that same experience! My colleagues at the time pushed me to submit my application. I studied Health and Social Care and Psychology at A Level but until recently it was never a path I had looked at for myself!

The thing I love most about my job: being a cheerleader for women at their most vulnerable. I love allowing women to believe in themselves and their bodies and also being a shoulder to cry on when things feel tough! Supporting midwives also gives me a huge amount of job satisfaction when lightening their load so we can give the best care as a team and creating positive birth experiences in safe environments.

A stand out moment from my career: being uplifted to a Band 3 and having the training to get clinical with patients and their babies - I just knew I had more to explore as a Midwifery Support Worker. 

My advice to anybody wanting to become an MSW: just to go for it!  Even if it is a complete career change from what you are doing currently - those decisions are often the best! An MSW has such a unique insight to the role and can really help somebody see their future career prospects clearer! There really is nothing like a relationship between a midwife and her patient!!

Next steps: in September 2026 I will become a student midwife! If you told 18-year-old Alicia that in 4 years' time I would be going to university she definitely would not have believed you!