Cath Reeve-Jones, Senior Midwife at Newham University Hospital, filmed in artist's studio in September 2020
In 2020, Cath Reeve-Jones worked at the Barkantine Birth Centre on the Isle of Dogs. The centre had an integrated midwifery team that provided all antenatal and postnatal care for women living on the island. As a senior midwife, her role included both management responsibilities and clinical duties, such as delivering babies and providing postnatal care..
Cath Reeve-Jones recalls how overwhelming the amount of fake news was during the pandemic, and how not knowing whom to trust added to the confusion and anxiety. Despite the challenges, the centre remained open throughout COVID-19 and experienced a significant rise in births, as many people preferred to avoid hospitals. The centre’s private ambulance service allowed for the safe transfer of patients when necessary. Providing care for pregnant women during this time was particularly challenging. Many missed essential prenatal and postnatal appointments, which caused great concern and frustration among the midwives, who were unable to offer the full level of care or conduct home visits. These circumstances contributed to a sharp increase in postnatal depression rates.
Cath Reeve-Jones expressed great pride in her team, whose reliability and dedication enabled them to overcome all challenges.
Keywords: Obstetrics, Gynaecology, Midwifery, Leadership, Management roles, Chinese community, Bangladeshi community, Trust, Pandemic