RCM President hands over the reins

By Lydia O'Neill RCM President Midwifery

After four years, attending four Royal College of Midwives (RCM) Conferences and eight visits to outstanding maternity units around the country with HRH the Princess Royal, Kathryn Gutteridge formally stands down as RCM President.

Passionate about women’s issues, particularly in relation to childbearing, Kathryn has a reputation for representing women’s psychological and mental wellbeing during this vulnerable stage of their lives. Further to this, Kathryn founded Sanctum Midwives, an organisation that educates, represents and challenges stigma around sexual abuse and its impact during motherhood.

Gill Walton, Chief Executive and General Secretary of the RCM, said: "It’s been an absolute pleasure working with Kathryn over the past four years, even if we haven’t been able to get out and about as much over the past 16 months! Kathryn’s passion for midwifery and maternity care shines through everything she does and it’s been great to see and hear her share that with RCM members. I’m also really grateful for her personal supportive to me, as we took on our respective roles at the same time."

An established Consultant Midwife with a long history of clinical care in the NHS, Kathryn has used her expert knowledge, working in diverse settings including neonatal services and community midwifery care, to help shape the direction of the union and professional body. She was the Consultant Midwife and Clinical Lead for low risk women at Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust.

Kathryn is an experienced author and presenter on both a national and international circuit, specialising in emotional wellbeing during childbirth and women maintaining control over their choices. Her international profile has taken her to Israel, Dubai, Sweden, Tasmania and Australia where she has enjoyed sharing her midwifery experiences.

Gill added: "Of course, as well as all the midwifery accolades and experience Kathryn has accumulated, I can’t let the moment pass without mentioning her sense of style. She’s an incredible seamstress, and often came along to Royal visits wearing one of her own creations. As someone who can barely sew on a button, I am always in awe!"

Kathryn is succeeded by Rebeccah Davies, who officially takes over the reins today (1 July 2021) following her election by the College’s members. Find out more.