Maternity Support Workers provide support to midwives in delivering care to women, birthing people and their families during the antenatal, intrapartum and postnatal periods. Their duties include both clinical and non-clinical tasks, such as monitoring vital signs, supporting infant feeding and offering emotional support. They work under the supervision of registered midwives and are integral to multidisciplinary teams.
Qualifications
While formal qualifications are not always required for entry-level positions, GCSEs in English and Maths are often preferred. Previous experience in healthcare, social care or related settings is advantageous.
Progression
With experience and further training, MSWs can advance to senior support roles or pursue midwifery training through degree apprenticeships or university programmes.
Breastfeeding Peer Supporter
Breastfeeding Peer Supporters are trained individuals, often with personal breastfeeding experience, who provide encouragement, information and practical support to new parents. They typically operate in community settings, maternity units or infant feeding clinics to promote breastfeeding initiation and continuation.
Qualifications
Completion of a recognised breastfeeding peer support training course, usually lasting 6–12 weeks, is typically required. Ongoing learning and supervision are also important.
Progression
This role can serve as a foundation for further careers in maternity care, including positions as Maternity Support Workers, Health Visiting Support roles or progression to midwifery degree programmes. It helps develop essential communication and person-centred care skills.
Midwifery Degree Apprenticeship
This pathway allows individuals to earn while they learn by combining paid employment in a maternity setting with part-time academic study. Successful completion leads to NMC registration as a midwife.
Entry requirements
Set by individual employers but typically include Level 3 qualifications and relevant healthcare experience.
Availability
Offered by selected NHS organisations, with vacancies advertised on the NHS Jobs website and the Government Apprenticeships website.
Undergraduate Midwifery Degree
A three-year full-time programme that combines academic study with clinical placements in maternity settings. Successful completion leads to professional registration with the NMC as a midwife.
Entry requirements
Typically requires three A-levels or equivalent Level 3 qualifications, often including a science or social science subject. Entry is competitive and requirements may vary among universities.
Application process
Applications are submitted via UCAS. Prospective students are expected to demonstrate an understanding of the midwife's role, often through relevant experience, volunteering or shadowing opportunities.
Postgraduate Midwifery Programme for Registered Nurses
An 18-month to two-year full-time course designed for registered adult nurses who wish to become qualified midwives. The programme combines academic study with clinical midwifery placements and leads to NMC registration as a midwife.
Entry requirements
Applicants must be registered as an adult nurse with the NMC and have relevant clinical experience.
Application process
Applications are made directly to universities offering the programme.
