Continuity Midwife and mum-of-one Rachael Bannister works with women and families from Bradford’s inner-city communities.
Although she trained in Sussex, Rachael is originally from Halifax and moved back to the area to take up a coveted role at our award-winning Women’s and Newborn Unit.
Rachael, 29, helps care for pregnant women from the BD3 and BD5 postcode areas of Bradford, which includes residents of Thornbury, Bradford Moor and Barkerend.
She said: “I’m normally based in the community and I look after women all the way through their pregnancy and birth.
“We try to look after the same women so they have continuity of care throughout their pregnancy and after they’ve given birth, too. It’s a bit more personalised than the normal model and allows us to build up really strong relationships with the women and families we work with.
Appointments
“A lot of our appointments also take place at women’s homes, which adds to the service we provide and ensures we really get to know the women under our care.”
Rachael is also part of a multi-disciplinary team who all work together to ensure pregnant women and new mums throughout Bradford get the best possible care, and their babies the best possible start whatever their circumstances.
“I work as part of the Better Start Bradford team covering BD3 and BD5, where I care for around 32 women each year.
“It’s a busy role and there’s always lots to do! But I love it. It’s such a privilege to work with women and families and help them bring new life into the world.
“We also have a buddy midwife, and if she is not working I will take care of the women she is looking after.”
