Talking to babies: improving literacy and reducing inequalities
Maternity support workers (MSWs) are a vital part of the maternity team and often establish bonds with the women in their care. By signposting to the right support, we can make an immediate difference to their lives. Reducing health inequalities can improve life chances for their babies too. We can help the women and families […]
Exploring a career as a midwife or MSW researcher
There are varied routes to research careers for midwives. This i-learn module has been developed to support you in making your research career journey. Learning outcomes: Identified what motivates and interests you in terms of research Learnt where and how to develop your research capacity Analysed the knowledge and skills you need Created a personal […]
COVID 19 vaccination in pregnancy – 2024 update
**Updated for 2024** This module will outline the current evidence supporting COVID-19 vaccination in pregnancy and the potential outcomes for pregnant women should they choose not to have the vaccine. This information has changed over the period of the pandemic, based on more information becoming available. It is therefore imperative that midwives understand the current […]
Down syndrome: The importance of language
Learning outcomes: Develop a knowledge base around the importance of language when discussing Down syndrome Increase awareness of the implications of poor practice, including discriminatory or prejudicial views surrounding Down syndrome. Challenge perceptions about Down syndrome, making recommendations for best practice when caring for families in maternity services. Study time: 10 minutes This module relates […]
Down syndrome: breastfeeding
Many babies with Down syndrome will go on to breastfeed successfully. However, there are some physical and wider societal challenges that may present. These issues will not apply to all babies with Down syndrome but are the most common challenges identified through research and talking to parents. Learning outcomes: Find out the issues surrounding breastfeeding […]
Detecting anorectal malformations

Anorectal Malformations (ARMs) are a variety of conditions affecting both male and female newborn babies where there is an abnormality in the formation or position of the normal anus and rectum. Inspection for ARM is conducted soon after birth yet these conditions are frequently missed, with potential serious consequences. This resource has been targeted towards […]
Preventing pressure ulcers in maternity care
For the majority of women, pregnancy, birth and becoming a parent is a normal physiological life event where they are cared for safely and kept free from harm. Most pregnant and labouring women are fit and well, yet a number of women have left hospital care with an injury that impacted on their life and the […]
Building resilient practitioners
This quick taster course will introduce you to the concept of resilience, explain what is currently known about resilience in midwifery practice, and provide suggestions for developing personal resilience strategies. It includes a research-based Resilient Repertoire with linked reflective questions. By the end of this module you will have: Gained a better understanding of resilience […]
Personalised Care
Maternity policy in the UK focuses on provision of safe and personalised care across the perinatal period (NHS England 2016; Scottish Government 2017; Welsh Government 2019). As advocates for women and babies, midwives are central to supporting and facilitating personalised care.This course aims to provide guidance for midwives on personalised care and how to facilitate […]
VTE prevention and midwifery practice
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) remains one of the leading causes of maternal morbidity and mortality. This short course is designed to enable midwives to understand their vital role in identifying and preventing VTE and DVT. Study time: 30 minutes On completion of this i-learn module, you will be able to: describe the basic anatomy and physiology […]