Birth centre celebrates arrival of 4,000th baby – on midwife’s last day in NHS

NEW ARRIVAL: From left, Midwifery Sister Katie Headlam; mum Bukola Oni; Midwife Michelle Willingham; and baby Joshua

By Simon Bristow, Co-Editor

Staff at Hull’s Fatima Allam Birth Centre have celebrated the arrival of the 4,000 baby to be born at the unit – who was delivered by a midwife on her last day after a 43-year career in the NHS.

Baby Joshua was born to mum Bukola Oni, 37, at the end of March, and mum and midwife both shed a few tears.

Praising the care she had received, Bukola said: “From the moment I walked into the centre the midwives made me feel comfortable, and that made me really confident about the birth. They knew what they were doing and did it right. 

“The whole process took less than two hours, and the midwives were there every minute. They made sure I got everything I needed during the period – all the assistance I needed was provided. They kept an eye on me and the baby. They were literally on their toes the entire time. 

“I have had a very good experience. It is really good that we have a service like the centre provides, that delivers a top-notch healthcare service to mothers. I am doing well, and the baby is fine as well, and I have them to thank for it.”

Midwife Michelle Willingham, whose last assigned delivery before she retired was baby Joshua, said: “I normally work on Labour Ward, so I was absolutely thrilled to be there for Bukola and baby Joshua on my last day after 43 years in the NHS, 36 years spent as a midwife. 

“We had tears together afterwards as we were both so happy! It was an absolutely wonderful birth for my last day and for it to be the 4,000th in the centre so far was amazing.”

The midwife-led unit (MLU) includes three birthing rooms, Jasmine, Persea and Lotus, each of which feature a unique design. Open round-the-clock, the rooms also offer the option of a water birth, aromatherapy, mood lighting and music to personalise the natural birth experience and make it more relaxing.

Katie Headlam, Midwifery Sister at the centre says: “I am delighted that Bukola had such a wonderful birth experience with us. Reaching 4,000 births in just under seven years is such an achievement for my team, and for a MLU in general.” 

The centre, which opened in 2017, is based in Hull Women and Children’s Hospital on the site of Hull Royal Infirmary.