Nicole Newton is a Bereavement Midwife who works at St James’s University Hospital in Leeds. 

Having worked as a Midwife for five years, Nicole feels ‘honoured’ to be let into families’ lives during their worst times. She describes it as a ‘privilege’ to listen to and advocate for bereaved families, while showing them their baby is so important.  

Her nomination for the Elaine Thorp Award for Bereavement Care came from bereaved mother Jasmine who highlighted how approachable, helpful and supportive Nicole was following her loss. 

In the nomination, Jasmine described how Nicole had supported her with her mental health following the loss of their baby Musa, always being at the other end of the phone when she needed her.  

She said: “What makes Nicole stand out was that while my mental health declined, she was the one who pushed and advocated for more support - I phoned her daily while I was waiting for my referral. She never once made me feel like I was bothering her, and she encouraged me to reach out. To say she saved my life would be an understatement and I wouldn’t have been here if it wasn’t for Nicole’s support.” 

Nicole also played a big part in helping the mother share their experiences with other healthcare professionals involved in her care. She attended meetings with her and enabled her to ask important questions about Musa and their care. Explaining the review process, who would be present and what the outcomes meant was another part Nicole played in being there for her during such a difficult time. 

Jasmine explained how thoughtful Nicole was in her approach: “She asked me how to pronounce Musa's name and asked what the meaning was which meant a lot to me. She was very approachable and always encouraged me to speak out. 

“Nicole also organised a memorial event for Baby Loss Awareness Week and invited the local Sands group, bereaved parents and families. There was no pressure to stay, and she supported us with the activities.”  

Nicole believes the ‘small acts of kindness’ make all the difference when caring for bereaved families. She said: “If a small act of kindness or being there to listen can make even a tiny difference to someone, then I feel that I have done my job.” 

On being nominated and shortlisted for this award, she said: “It means so much that a bereaved family have taken the time to nominate me for this award despite going through what must be the hardest time of their lives. Feeling that you make a difference to families when they need it most is what makes this job so special and to be appreciated in this way makes it all worthwhile.   

“It is such a privilege to be shortlisted knowing that so many deserving people caring for bereaved families will also have been nominated. 

“I am very lucky to work with such a lovely team who are so supportive and continually strive to improve the care that bereaved families receive.”