Positive Health Online

Pelvetia – The Perfect Seaweed for Children

by SB Ranger Director Seagreens Trust

Of the many seaweeds abundant around our native shores, none is more suitable for children than Pelvetia canaliculata, known over hundreds of years by various Latin and common names, but Channel Wrack in Britain, and Sauertang in Norway where our Seagreens project began 25 years ago.

For one thing, Pelvetia grows closest to the shoreline and is abundant in the British Isles. It has three times the Omega fatty acids of its closest but deeper water neighbours, in almost ideal ratios. It has up to three times less iodine, which means children can eat more of it, to benefit from its comprehensive micronutrients. Both contribute especially to cognitive development and normal growth in children.

Pelvetia has all the antioxidants, continuous scourge of blood and digestive toxins, all the vitamins including B12 and E with all its isomers (like wheat but gluten free), and still rarer vitamins like H and K. And it's a seafood, but unlike fish and Crustacea it contains all the soluble ocean minerals and trace elements, and no harmful allergens.

 

https://seagreens.shop/product/nutritious-food-seaweed-pelvetia-salad-condiment-50g/

Seagreens® Pelvetia Pieces, carefully selected and prepared, is 100% Pelvetia canaliculata. The small pieces can be included at breakfast in muesli, soaked for 5 minutes and added to vegetables, or infused for an hour again in cold water with grated ginger root and chopped lemons, as a thirst-quenching tonic or tea.

Four years ago I reported in Positive Health – Why is Seaweed and Salt Better than Salt Alone? – on ground-breaking thyroid/iodine research at the University of Glasgow using Seagreens® Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed. Pelvetia is such a close relative that 150 years ago it was called Ascophyllum canaliculata.

Published in the British Journal of Nutrition in 2014*, the Glasgow research showed bioavailability at 33% of total iodine in the trialed seaweed, in line with earlier studies. Prolonged absorption also produced a more stable supply than potassium iodide, the chemical iodine of conventional choice for population supplementation.

Our European regulatory framework, however, in spite of the millions our governments spend on research, is inexcusably out of step. Allowable daily intakes are still based on total iodine, not uptake. The same framework still labels Pelvetia a 'novel food', because it came to prominence as a dietary superfood over the past 25 years, after the introduction of the EU Novel Food Regulation 258 in 1997. Yet how many millions of children have been born since then, under threat of access to one of today's most nutritious natural whole foods?

* Combet E, et al. Low-level seaweed supplementation improves iodine status in iodine-insufficient women. British Journal of Nutrition, 9:1-9. 2014.

Research paper and our highly antioxidant tonic using this product, available on request.

Further Information

Further information from Seagreens information Service, West Sussex RH17 6DX, UK Tel: 01444 400403; info@seagreens.co.uk  https://seagreens.shop/

 

 

The International Science Nutrition Society

The International Science Nutrition Society seeks to collaborate with top scientists, medical doctors, researchers, and experts in integrative medicine to share the most up to date studies, concepts and research in the areas of health, wellness, science and nutrition. This unique society will acquire and share knowledge while providing emotional, mental, and spiritual expertise. ISNS is a society of brilliance led by eclectic doctors, healthcare professionals, and research scientists with experience in science, nutrition, nutraceutical, phytotherapy and pharmaceutical backgrounds. Our advisors create a solid infrastructure for improving global health and wellness.

 

https://sciencenutritionsociety.com/

 

This society was created on the principle that the science behind nutrition is often demoted to solving problems without solving the root cause of the issue. We are an evidence-based society where science is integrated with nature. The members have access to the latest research publications, abstracts, journals, posters, case studies, and white papers in science and nutrition. ISNS also provides opportunities for research and grants with an extensive library of multidisciplinary resources such as natural ingredients, minerals, vitamins, plants and seeds that are the foundation of a natural and nutrient-rich lifestyle.

ISNS has come together to create a society full of individuals with the same passion- to share the knowledge of science nutrition to the world around them. We are a blend of individuals from different backgrounds all over the world to participate in the research, engage in conversation, and stand as a leader in the health community. The vision is creating a community that comes together to leave behind a clean, happy and healthy word for the future generations while healing the planet one life at a time.

At the core ISNS is an amazing group of doctors. Dr Christina Rahm, a Visionary Alchemist and Founder and Chairman. Dori Naerbo Ph.D. who has an extensive educational and research background, Dr Tina Boziccnik MD, of Integrative Medicine and an award-winning pediatrician and Dr Norbert Ketskes, MD, who is one of the most acknowledged Gastroenterologist in Hungary. Dr Zsuza Csisztu LL.M, is a journalist, tv presenter and sports lawyer. Additionally, Clare G Harvey Ed, is an internationally recognized Harley Street Consultant and Author of Complementary and Integrative medicine.

ISNS is a membership only community, encompassing students, senior academics, physicians, healthcare providers, scientists, and clinical researchers worldwide. There are three levels of membership: basic, associate, and professional, that are open to anyone with an interest in the integrative sciences for humankind and the planet.

Further Information

To register or to learn more please  visit www.sciencenutritionsociety.com       Linked In   Facebook    Instagram   contact via info@sciencenutritionsociety.com

 

 

Berberine - Extracted from Nature’s Larder for Better Blood Sugar Control

Blood sugar problems are accelerating at a phenomenal rate. According to Diabetes UK there are currently 4.9 million people in the UK with diabetes of which 90% of them are Type 2 diabetics. It is estimated that there are a further 13.6 million people at risk of Type 2 diabetes. That is a huge percentage and it is similar in many other countries in the world.

This is a massive burden on our health systems and sadly a huge rise in human suffering, much of it avoidable. There is considerable proof showing that Type 2 diabetes is avoidable and in fact reversible. It does take discipline which is the drawback for many. However when people consider the potential suffering in terms of cardio vascular problems, dangers of losing limbs and blindness then discipline should be the preferable option.

 

https://www.water-for-health.co.uk/berberine-1200-60-caps.html

 

It is commonly presented that medication is the only route to treat the problem, yet careful attention to diet and the use of natural botanicals can make a massive difference to the outcome. Nature has wonderfully endowed us with so many natural approaches that can massively help to heal our bodies.  We are commonly programmed to believe that as we age that degenerative diseases is inevitable. However, we do know that quality of life in senior years and the longevity of our lives is largely dependent on the choices we make on a consistent daily basis.

One of the botanical stars of good blood sugar balance is Berberine. Berberine is a bioactive alkaloid compound that is extracted from a number of plants of which the most common is the Berberis shrub. Berberine has a long history of use in Chinese Medicine and Ayurvedic medicine primarily as an anti-microbial agent.

However research has found that Berberine offers huge potential in controlling blood sugar balance.  The independent web site  examine.com gives a list of relevant research on berberine together with advice as to dosage, possible side effects and other drug interactions. This is a very good resource for both practitioners and consumers. What is particularly interesting is its effectiveness compared to commonly prescribed blood sugar medication.

In summary, Berberine offers considerable benefits to people struggling to control their blood sugar levels. It should be remembered that no one that is taking medication for their blood sugar levels should take Berberine without the advice of their doctor, as it could potentially reduce levels of blood sugar too low.  Berberine is normally available as Berberine HCL and the recommended serving per day is 1,000 to 1,500mg which is typically 2 capsules.

However Berberine HCL should not be regarded as a total solution. Dietary and lifestyle changes should be made to bring the body into optimal balance. In particular a properly optimized body pH level has shown considerable merit for blood sugar control. Reducing processed food intake, sugars, simple carbohydrates and processed vegetable oils is a good starting place in addition to getting the body properly hydrated.

Further Information

This article has been submitted by Roddy MacDonald of Water for Health Ltd

 

 

Natural Therapeutics – Passionate about Essential Oils and Essential Oil Training

At Natural Therapeutics, we are passionate about essential oils and essential oil training. We offer a wide range of courses, including a diploma as an Essential Oil Practitioner for people who do not want to train in massage as an aromatherapist does. We have taken the UK core curriculum for aromatherapy and stripped out all of the massage elements, so you do all the rest of the training and will be qualified to blend for clients using all the same products as an aromatherapist would. It includes a separate diploma in anatomy, physiology and pathology and if you already hold a recognised APP diploma, we can exempt you from that part of the course, so you will only need complete the essential oil modules. The course is fully accredited by Complementary Health Professionals, known for high standards who offer membership for practitioners and a discounted insurance scheme.

 

https://www.naturaltherapeutics.co.uk/

 

Last year we launched our level 5 upgrade course for aromatherapists who wish to deepen their knowledge and gain a higher-level qualification. These are all modular and include modules on advanced chemistry and blending, elderly care, care of chronic conditions, energy work with essential oils, working with fertility, pregnancy, childbirth and children as well as aromatherapy to support mental health conditions. You need to complete each module and then write a 3000-word thesis on a subject of your choice to gain the level 5 diploma. You can start this anytime as you can with all of our courses and work online at your own pace.

We also offer lots of essential oil CPD courses for aromatherapists and essential oil practitioners and although all is done online, you have access to a real live person to ask questions whenever you need to! You can email or video call for support and all of your coursework is marked by a tutor and you get copious amounts of developmental feedback and extra snippets of information. If you do not believe us, check out our Google reviews from past students.

We do also have some in-class courses on essential oil blending as well as neuroskeletal re-alignment therapy and remedial massage and trigger point therapy. These are currently held in Thetford. You may also enjoy our Aromatic Tour at Kew Gardens, which we do every June. It is a wonderful day out exploring the flowering plants that give us our essential oils and share information on the oils, their properties and blending.

If you are new to complementary therapies, we have some cheaper introductory courses online so that you can dip your toe and these include essential oils and herbal medicine.

Further Information

For more details, visit www.naturaltherapeutics.co.uk and please do get in touch if you have any questions.

 

 

The College of Ayurveda UK: Ayurveda – Ancient and Science-Based System of Medicine

Ayurveda is a science-based healthcare approach that treats illness and promotes wellness by focusing assessment on biochemically-unique aspects of each patient, and then individually tailoring interventions to restore psychological, physiological and structural imbalances. Ayurvedic medicine not only recognizes the uniqueness of the individual but also the oneness of all creation and how this translates into human health on all levels. There has been a worldwide surge of interest in Ayurvedic medicine as people seek health and well-being.

Ayurvedic Medicine, based on the Vedic wisdom expounded by the ancient sages, is the most ancient system of medicine known to mankind It emerged within the Vedic culture that arose on the foothills of Himalayas and along the banks of the great rivers of India.

 

https://ayurvedacollege.org/ayurveda

 

The College of Ayurveda and Yoga Therapy is the premier educator for individuals seeking to make a difference in the world through a career restoring the natural balance of body, mind and spirit with the wisdom of Ayurveda. This mission has been the central driving force of the College since its inception. The College of Ayurveda and Yoga Therapy is the only institution in the UK that offers a complete Ayurvedic programme comparable in content to the B. A. M. S. (Bachelor of Ayurveda Medicine & Surgery) degree course taught in India.

The basic principles upon which Ayurvedic medicine/healthcare operates are:

• Biochemical individuality based on genetic and environmental uniqueness;
• Dynamic balance of internal and external factors;
• Web-like interconnections of psycho-physiological processes;
• Health as a positive vitality – not merely the absence of disease;
• Promotion of organ reserve through psycho-neuro-immunological processes;
• Patient-centred rather than disease focused healthcare.

Using these principles, Ayurvedic healthcare practitioners focus on understanding the fundamental physiological processes, the environmental inputs, and the genetic predisposition that influence every person’s experience of health and disease. A person is considered an integral part of the Universe which is governed by natural laws. Ayurveda works primarily on human constitution called Dosha and Prakruti through lifestyle counselling, herbal preparations, nutrition, massage, yoga and Panchakarma all used to bring about balance and harmony in the body.

The College, which promote the values of a tolerant and democratic society and the ideals of scholarship and the benefits of life-long education and training, aims to provide the most up-to-date and comprehensive Ayurvedic medical education. It works to develop and support educational programmes and select a student body of such a size that every student has a quality and relevant educational experience, and provide students with clearly defined academic programmes, competent teaching, a caring and supportive academic structure and an attractive and facilitating environment.

Further Information

If you would like to register your interest for the next intake in 2022/2023 please leave your details at https://ayurvedacollege.org/interest ; we will be in contact as soon as we release the information for the next year. For further information or a prospectus please contact the College of Ayurveda’s Administrator Ione Ashmore at ioneashmore@ayurvedacollege.org or visit their website at www.ayurvedacollege.org

 

 

Zoe Warren: Peachy With Zoe

Peachy With Zoe is a new wellness brand by Zoe Warren, a qualified yoga teacher and a mother of three young girls with a passion for us all to find more joy within our day to day life. Born at the intersection of various wellbeing modalities, this new wellbeing service offers a fresh way to maintain your physical, energetic and mental health in a fun, easy going and mindful way. Peachy With Zoe is committed to helping people reconnect with their bodies and themselves through the five ingredients that can make our lives that little bit peachier; Movement, Music, Nature, Lifestyle and Self-awareness. 

 

https://www.peachywithzoe.com/

 

Peachy with Zoe is a community, a place where people can find movement, such as the Feel Good Friday videos – mini movement videos in collaboration with renowned chef Clodagh Mc Kenna, beautiful playlists, inspiring people and simple actionable ideas on how to best support themselves. The peachy podcasts have so far included conversations with the likes of chef Clodagh McKenna, stylist Ginnie Chadwyck Healey, hormone specialist Dr Many Leonhardt, pilot and motivational speaker Kerry Bennet, Nutritional coach Amber Macintosh and more.

An antidote to the faced paced, high stress world we live in, Peachy with Zoe also offers an affordable monthly subscription services giving the subscriber access to the peachy podcasts, mindfulness practices, breathwork as well as a host of exclusive content . It offers access to over 100 movement videos from 5-75 minutes designed to be followed at home to support even the busiest of lives. It also has access to over 60 hours of Zoe’s beautifully curated playlists. This allows movement and music to support and nourish you whatever your day throws at you.

Peachy with Zoe is designed with every single one of us in mind; it’s inclusive, relaxed, realistic and accessible, it’s there to help us all go through daily life with more ease and joy. With a playful approach focused on unearthing one’s joy, Zoe has been leading movement classes both on and off-line since her first Yoga Teacher Training in 2010. She now leads classes at the newly opened and hugely popular, Retreat at Elcot Park Hotel and previous locations include the Harbour Club and The Power Yoga Company, both in London. Since her initial training she has expanded to include a host of different wellbeing practices to provide an overarching view of everyday health. Zoe did a pregnancy yoga teacher training with Nadia Narain, an anatomy teacher training with Zephyr Wildman, a yoga for back care course, a leadership and embodiment training course with Naomi Absalom, a mindful Para Yoga training with Rod Stryker and many more. Based at Highclere Stud in Hampshire, Zoe has collaborated with the likes of Clodagh McKenna and Cloe Cassandra, proving wellness and mindful movement have a place in every facet of life; from the kitchen, to the wardrobe and everywhere in between. 

Further Information

Please get in touch with Zoe via zoe@peachywithzoe.com    https://www.peachywithzoe.com/

 

 

The Theory and Practice of Taiji Qigong 3^rd Edition

by Chris Jarmey

Published by Lotus Publishing. 2022. Softback. £9.65/ $20.91 ISBN: 1905367325.

A simple yet comprehensive instruction manual for the practice of the 18 Stances of Taiji Qigong

 

http://www.lotuspublishing.co.uk/books/health-fitness/the-theory-and-practice-of-taiji-qigong/

 

Taiji Qigong is a gentle, easy to learn system of energy-enhancing exercises that coordinate movement with mindful breathing and inner awareness which, when practiced regularly, will give you more energy, improve health and help prevent illness.

This book is designed to inform all levels and depths of practice. Whether you are completely new to the subject or looking to enrich your current understanding, whether you want to improve your flexibility, cultivate mindfulness or get a better night’s sleep, it contains a treasure trove of information from which to build a practice specific to your own goals.

Part I provides a thorough grounding in the theory and practice of Qi and Qigong. Part II discusses the general principles of Qigong practice, clarifying common questions about how often to practice (15 minutes a day is a good starting point, 30 minutes will provide a marked increase in vitality and serenity), how to achieve an optimum stance and what breathing techniques should be used (natural breathing, abdominal breathing, and reverse abdominal breathing). Part III examines the 18 movements of Taiji Qigong with step-by-step illustrated instructions, detailed information on the benefits of each stance, additional technique tips and insights into how movement flow can be enhanced through the power of the mind.

At the back of the book is a handy reference chart for quick practice reminders.

Practice the full eighteen movements or simply pick and choose the ones you like best!

About the Author

Chris Jarmey blended his love of Eastern methods with Western approaches and qualified as a state registered physiotherapist in 1978, researching and evaluating the healing effects of yoga, shiatsu, and Qigong within NHS hospitals and medical rehabilitation centers. He founded The European Shiatsu School in 1985 and is the author of several best-selling books including The Concise Book of Muscles and The Pocket Atlas of Human Anatomy.

Further Information

Available from Lotus Publishing   Amazon.co.uk   and Amazon.com

 

 

ODYSSEY: My Journey Back Home

Journal and illustrations by Lily Sawtell

Published by Lily Sawtell

What do you do when faced with an unexpected challenge - the diagnosis of breast cancer? My way of coping with this news was to write a journal of my adventure, like Homer, of coming back home. Meeting my own Cyclopes, dealing with the perils of Scylla and Charybdis and those Idiot Winds that can blow you off-course. In an interview with my grandson for a film he was making about ISOLATION, I said that I didn’t want this experience to also become ‘a cancer of the mind‘ full of fear and anger, and that I needed to “Roll with It” like the Oasis song. With music and those words echoing in my being this journal has music and song titles running through it. Along the way I took pictures of the hospital and myself, these images becoming the starting point for the illustrations in my book.

https://www.lilysawtell.com/shop/p/book-odyssey

Statistic-wise, the odds are that we all have a 1 in 2 chance of developing cancer. This my healer told me on my first visit. Many cancer patients come to him, and he was happy to see me as I was at the beginning of my journey and about to start the treatment outlined by the team of NHS doctors at my local hospital. The care and support I received from all at the hospital while still working under the added pressure of Covid restrictions, was amazing. In this country we are all very fortunate to have this provision of free healthcare, with none of the added pressure of how to fund getting well.

Through my brother-in-law and a mutual friend I learnt about Mistletoe Therapy. This is a complementary therapy used alongside standard medical cancer treatments in Germany, Switzerland and The Netherlands. After hearing how it had helped with the side-effects of Chemo and Radio Therapy I decided to investigate for myself and began using Mistletoe before my treatment started. My doctor at St Luke’s Therapy Centre still regularly checks on how I am doing and prescribes my dosage. Throughout most of my 8 sessions of Chemotherapy I never experienced the overwhelming fatigue, loss of energy, depression or anxiety which many people experience. In fact some of the time when people asked how I was feeling, I felt a fraud. Friends and family generously helped me to fund this treatment which I will continue, as the aim is to keep my body’s defences alert to any future invasion of cancer cells.

Further Information

For further information and to purchase visit  https://www.lilysawtell.com/shop/p/book-odyssey

 

 

The Memory Palace of Bones – Exploring Embodiment Through the Skeletal System
by Jeff Rockwell and David Lauterstein

Published by Handspring Publishing imprint of Singing Dragon. 2023. Paperback $40.00    ISBN: 9781913426590

The Memory Palace of Bones is an unprecedented exploration of the anatomy of the bones of the body, and a unique set of reflections on the role each individual bone plays in our lives, looking at both its physical and energetic contributions. The field of mind-body medicine and healthcare is growing, yet there are few “enlightened” anatomy books.

 

https://us.singingdragon.com/products/the-memory-palace-of-bones

 

In The Memory Palace of Bones, the authors offer an inspiring, beautifully written book on this deeper layer of the body-mind. Those who read the book will enjoy a deeper insight into the essence of the core layer of their body and lives. It combines the anatomical expertise of the authors with their appreciation for the beauty of the body and uniquely arises from two lifetimes involving extensive clinical expertise as well as valuing imagination as a source of wisdom and depth. Bones as a wisdom source is a topic that until now has never been systematically covered. It will be read and treasured by practitioners and students of massage therapy, bodywork, movement professionals, Zero Balancers, chiropractors, osteopaths, Rolfers, body-centred psychotherapists, students and teachers of yoga, performing artists and other health professionals as well as by laymen wanting a greater understanding of and connection to their bodies.

Further Information

To be published 21 March 2023. More Info at  David Lauterstein Shop  Available from Singing Dragon.

 

 

The Power of Positive Thinking: Interfaith 21st Century Edition

by Norman Vincent Peale with Hasan Abdullah Ismaik  

Published by Waterside Productions. 2022. Paperback. £17.07/ $16.62. ISBN10:‎ 1958848190.

As one of the most profound books ever written, Norman Vincent Peale’s The Power of Positive Thinking put the self-help genre on the map when it was first published in 1952. With practical messages paired with quotes from the Christian Bible, the book has sold over 24 million copies worldwide and has been translated into 42 languages.

 

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Power-Positive-Thinking-Interfaith-Century/dp/1958848190/ref=asc_df_1958848190/

 

In the newly annotated version, The Power of Positive Thinking: Interfaith 21st Century Edition, humanitarian and entrepreneur Hasan Abdullah Ismaik brings a unique perspective to Peale’s beloved work. By annotating the book with complementary messages from the three Abrahamic religions – Judaism, Christianity, Islam – Ismaik enhances its practicality by revealing the connection between all faiths. This new perspective lends a unifying message of peace and love for humanity in a challenging world. Peale’s original work focuses on offering practical and workable techniques for living a successful life, with a biblical approach. Inspired by the commonalities between the essence of the Christian messages in the book and that of the Jewish and Muslim faiths, Ismaik thoughtfully complements the book’s Christian Bible passages with analogous quotes from the Quran, the Hebrew Bible and the modern Christian New Kings James Version Bible. This interfaith edition aims to broaden the original book’s universal appeal, helping readers navigate through personal challenges while reminding them of the common ground shared between beliefs.

In the context of current world challenges, finding common ground is essential for peace in the world. The Power of Positive Thinking: Interfaith 21st Century Edition is a timely contribution for today’s world, bridging the divide between differing political and religious beliefs. Ismaik’s re-envisioning of Peale’s classic work keeps intact its powerful messages while demonstrating the impact that positive thinking can have on seekers of any faith.

On his purpose for annotating The Power of Positive Thinking, Ismaik states, “This book is an open invitation to the followers of the three religions of our master Abraham to renew our understanding of life; find purpose in our presence in it; renounce, forgive, and forget its bitter grudges and deep divisions; and look to the future with confidence and reassurance. The unity of their teachings is stronger than the disunity that separates us.”

About Hasan Abdullah Ismaik

Hasan Abdullah Ismaik is an Arab entrepreneur, writer, and thinker dedicated to spreading philosophical culture and developing Arab rational discourse. A Jordanian of Palestinian heritage who resides in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Ismaik chairs the investment firms Marya Group and First Capital Group Holding. His humanitarian interests include promoting harmony between the East and West; supporting religious discourse and tolerance; elevating the understanding of Islamic philosophy and heritage; working for international cooperation, conflict resolution and stability in the Middle East; and, especially, fostering the social and economic welfare of the young. In doing so, Ismaik seeks to achieve a spiritual rapprochement that strengthens the bonds of love and understanding between believers in the East and West.

Source and Media Contact

Dea Shandera-Hunter <newsdesk@news21am.com> , <deashandera@yahoo.com>

Further Information

Available from Amazon.co.uk and Amazon.com

 

 

University of Sunderland: Meet the Next Generation of Midwives

Responding to a national shortage of full-time midwives in the NHS, the University of Sunderland launched its BSc (Hons) Midwifery Practice three-year undergraduate degree, which further enhances the range of healthcare programmes now provided on campus, from medicine, healthcare sciences, paramedic practice and nursing to physiotherapy and occupational therapy.

 

https://www.sunderland.ac.uk/study/nursing-midwifery/midwifery-practice/

 

At the heart of the multi-million-pound Midwifery Suite, the programme has been designed to address challenges specifically around perinatal mental health.  Perinatal mental illness is a major public health issue that can have a devastating impact on women and their families, resulting in conditions such as depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. But with increasing knowledge of mental health and emotional wellbeing in relation to pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period, the programme recognizes that this is of growing importance to maternity care and the emotional and social wellbeing in babies and toddlers.

Linda McNamee says:

“The programme is off to an excellent start with a very enthusiastic group of students. Already they have started to learn the essential knowledge and skills that will prepare them for their first clinical placements. ..

She added: “Our programme focuses not only on the physical health of the mother and new-born but also the mental health of the mother before, during and after birth. It will provide a unique opportunity for students to understand the challenges faced by midwives regarding mental health, therefore building a greater understanding and ability to support women, newborns and their families as part of the future workforce.” 

One of the first to join the program, former procurement specialist Claire Harrison, was inspired to become a midwife thanks to the care she received when she was pregnant with her daughters. She said:

“I think pregnancy and birth are one of the most life-changing experiences that a person can go through. It can either be a good experience, or not so good, that can impact on women and families for the rest of their lives. As a midwife, if we can help identify any signs that a mum may need additional support with her mental health through her pregnancy and beyond, then we will be able to set them on the right path, making sure they’re looked after and not struggling.”

The Midwifery Suite has been designed as part of a wide-ranging external consultation with regional NHS Trusts, maternity services and the Patient, Carer and Public Involvement (PCPI) programme (a group of services users and carers). Located in Helen McArdle Nursing and Care Research Institute, the Midwifery Suite has been established with the help of £1.8m in funding from Health Education England, the Catherine Cookson Charitable Trust and NHS Sunderland Clinical Commissioning Group. Featuring the latest equipment in maternity care, which will take students from ante-natal care and childbirth, through to post-natal support, the Midwifery Suite reflects how mothers are choosing their care.

Further Information

Please contact Helen Franks Tel: 07786807586;  pressoffice@sunderland.ac.uk  University of Sunderland BSc Midwifery Practice.