A caring midwife and her colleagues were honoured for going above and beyond in their care for expectant mothers and their families fleeing from persecution in their home countries.  

Kristy Franklin received the Making A Difference Award from Stockport NHS Foundation Trust Chief Executive Karen James OBE, awards which are given to colleagues who have shown exceptional care.

Kristy and her colleagues in the community midwifery team were sent to support two separate groups of refugees who had been housed at hotels in Stockport. Most refugees were from Afghanistan, Iran and Iraq, with smaller groups from Eritrea, Somalia and India. Many had suffered terrible traumas on their journeys to the country. One woman had given birth just before arrival, one was just about to give birth, and the groups had people with a whole range of medical problems, from serious to minor.

The midwives showed outstanding care, assisting with problems beyond their usual workload in addition to their usual duties, and even helping the group with their laundry too. They forged a close bond with the refugees and are still in touch with them many months on.

“We just wanted to treat them how we would want to be treated,” said Kristy, “that’s what being a midwife is about.” 

Karen James said “The compassion which Kristy and her fellow community midwives showed to these vulnerable mothers was a very moving example of our values of making a difference in the lives of those we care for. It was a real pleasure to present her with this award.”   

Making A Difference Award winners receive a certificate honouring their achievements, and spending vouchers too. The award scheme began in 2021 and is continuing to prove popular with colleagues as a way of showing thanks.