To give the mother-to-be practical and emotional support, before, during and after the baby is born, including: ▪ Calling, Video-calling or texting her on regular basis as mutually agreed.
▪ Meet or visit her if mutually agreed, observing social distancing in line with Governmental guidelines.
▪ Jointly attend antenatal classes and appointments, if required. ▪ Provide information on birth planning and pain relief options.
▪ Act as birth partner if appropriate – support throughout the labour and birth. ▪ Information and support around breastfeeding.
▪ Active listening.
▪ Advocate for her if necessary or appropriate.
▪ Give encouragement and motivation.
▪ Respect her wishes;
▪ Signpost and/or enable her to access appropriate services and/or specialist groups.
• To be able to develop positive relationships with:
▪ The mum-to-be.
▪ The Maternity Mates team, WHFS staff, and other volunteer Maternity Mates. ▪ The community midwives.
▪ Hospital staff and other health professionals. ▪ Other expectant mothers.
• Keep all information confidential and all records up-to date.
• Keep in touch with Maternity Mates staff including: ▪ Informing Maternity Mates of scheduled visits with mums and following procedures in line with lone working policy ▪ Recording feedback after each visit to mums using the electronic links provided ▪ Seeking advice whenever needed • Attend supervision sessions with the Project Coordinator.
• Attend Reflective Practice & Emotional Wellbeing (group supervision) and Peer support group sessions. www.whfs.org.uk Page 2 of 2 Maternity Mates – Task description
• Follow WHFS’ policies, procedures, boundaries, and report any safeguarding issue to the Maternity Mates team.
• Attend organisational mandatory training (Personal Safety/Lone working and Safeguarding)
Maternity Mates cannot offer: • Any clinical advice or perform any medial tasks.
• Domestic cleaning, shopping or cooking.
• Babysitting services.
• Any legal, immigration or financial advice.
• To undertake any financial transactions or offer financial assistance.
• Meet the mums or accompany them outside the local borough.
• Drive mums to and from appointments.