North Surrey hospitals celebrate International Day of the Midwife 2026

Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust recognised its outstanding midwifery teams, who support families through pregnancy, birth, and the early days of life with skill, compassion and dedication on International Day of the Midwife on 5 May.

The trust’s clinical practice educators, midwives and Royal College of Midwives representatives hosted a stand at St Peter’s Hospital. Passersby were invited to take part in a ‘guess the baby’s gestation size by fruit’ game, use models to simulate delivering a baby, and write a thank you note to a midwife. They could also add their thoughts to complete the phrase “If the world had a million more midwives…”

Director of Midwifery Dr Benedicta Agbagwara-Osuji says: “Thank you to all our midwives working across our hospitals and in the community on International Day of the Midwife. This year’s theme, ‘One million more midwives’, highlights the importance of your role in delivering safe, personalised care every day. Your expertise, professionalism and commitment make a real difference to women, babies, and families in our care. Thank you for all that you do.”

The teams also enjoyed a visit from the breakfast pastry trolley, organised by the Head of Midwifery. Later in the day, Royal College of Midwives representatives hosted a shared lunch where midwives and maternity staff brought dishes representing their heritage. The spread included Indian samosas, Nigerian jollof rice, American pulled pork and Irish soda bread, reflecting the diversity within the maternity workforce.

In the afternoon, food and gifts were also taken to staff working at the Ashford Hub by Dr Agbagwara-Osuji, ensuring colleagues across all sites felt included in the celebrations, ensuring that time was taken to pause and reflect on the incredible work the teams do.