The Royal College of Midwives (RCM) has welcomed three leaders from across the maternity community as its newest Honorary Fellows, recognising their exceptional contributions to midwifery, maternity care and the wider profession.
Honorary Fellowships are among the highest honours awarded by the RCM and recognise individuals who have demonstrated outstanding service, leadership and commitment to improving care for women, babies and families.
The three new Honorary Fellows are Gillian Morton MBE, Professor Ranee Thakar, and Professor Jean Rankin, each recognised for their significant influence on maternity care, education and professional leadership.
Gillian Morton MBE, Director of Midwifery and Women and Children’s Nursing at NHS Forth Valley, has been recognised for her outstanding leadership within maternity services and her unwavering commitment to supporting education, learning and professional development for midwives. Her work has helped foster a culture where midwives feel valued, supported and empowered to develop their skills, benefiting teams, services and the families they care for.
Professor Ranee Thakar, former President of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, was recognised for her leadership in strengthening multidisciplinary working and collaboration across maternity services. During her RCOG presidency she helped deepen the relationship between the RCM and the RCOG, championing partnership working to improve care for women and families. She has also been a strong advocate for equity and racial equality in healthcare and her clinical work has made a major contribution to improving outcomes, particularly through the development of the OASI care bundle.
Professor Jean Rankin received the honour in recognition of her contribution to midwifery over a career spanning more than 40 years. As an academic midwife, researcher and educator, Jean has supported and mentored hundreds of student midwives and registered midwives. Her work has influenced maternity education, research and public health, including championing breastfeeding and exercise during pregnancy. Even after retiring from frontline practice, she continues to support the profession through research, teaching and doctoral supervision.
RCM Chief Executive Gill Walton said: “Honorary Fellowships are one of the highest honours the RCM can bestow and they recognise individuals who have made an exceptional contribution to midwifery and maternity care.
“Gillian, Ranee and Jean have each shown extraordinary leadership, commitment and passion throughout their careers. Their work has helped strengthen maternity services, support the midwifery workforce and improve care for women, babies and families.
“On behalf of the RCM and our members, I would like to congratulate them and thank them for the lasting impact they have made on our profession.”
