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 we care for acquire skills that will support their baby’s overall development and help improve literacy.

In this short module we consider how maternity staff can encourage the family to support their baby's emotional and cognitive development during pregnancy, labour and birth and postnatally.

Although aimed at support workers, this module may be interest for students and midwives as a refresher.

Study time: 10 minutes

This module relates to the following NMC Future Midwife standards of proficiency

Domain 2: Safe and effective midwifery care: promoting and providing continuity of care and carer
Domain 3: Universal care for all women and newborn infants
Domain 6: The midwife as skilled practitioner

Published: August 2024