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Midwife celebrates 50 years of helping mums and babies

Ann Remmers A black and white photo taken of Ann Remmers as a young midwife. She is wearing hospital scrubs and a white cap. Her curly hair is pulled back and tucked underneath her cap, with a few pieces pulled out at the front.Ann Remmers
Ann Remmers began her lifelong career as a midwife at Southmead Hospital

A midwife has received an award commending 50 years of "invaluable" service to the NHS.

Ann Remmers started her career at Bristol's Southmead Hospital. Her contributions to maternal and neonatal care were described by health leaders as creating a "thriving legacy".

She has now been honoured with the Chief Midwifery Officer Gold Award, which recognises those with a distinguished career who have been a role model to others.

"Caring for mothers and babies has been an absolute joy and real privilege," she said.

Health Innovation West of England Three women posing for a photo following the award show. The woman on the left has shoulder length brown hair with grey streaks, and is wearing a red lace blouse. In the middle is Ann Remmers, with short white curly hair, wearing a silver button up blouse and red framed glasses. She is smiling and holding the award, which is a small metal coin in a plastic square case. On the right is another woman with long blonde hair, wearing a blue sparkly top . Health Innovation West of England
Ms Remmers (M) was commended for her "continued vitality, enthusiasm, passion, positivity"

Ms Remmers currently works as the Maternity and Neonatal Clinical Lead for Health Innovation West of England, based in Bristol.

Her role involves helping to improve outcomes for premature babies across the south west of England.

She is also the clinical lead for Black Maternity Matters, an anti-racism scheme for perinatal teams and senior leaders to expose and address racist perceptions and behaviours that impact health outcomes.

"It is such an incredible honour to receive this award for a career I have loved," Ms Remmers said.

"I am lucky enough to have worked with so many incredible people and teams, and to celebrate this award with them has been wonderful."

'Thriving legacy'

Natasha Swinscoe, CEO of Health Innovation West of England, said the recognition was "very well deserved".

"Ann’s passion and commitment to improving life for mothers, babies and staff means she is never afraid to embrace and tackle difficult issues head-on.

"Her contribution to midwifery after 50 years in the NHS is invaluable, and her continued determination and dedication to improving outcomes for women and babies is a thriving legacy that has changed maternal and neonatal care in our region and beyond."

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