Blackwood service is good news for mums-to-be (From South Wales Argus)

Blackwood service is good news for mums-to-be

11:20am Saturday 14th November 2009 in News By Andy Rutherford - Health correspondent

A NEW midwife led ante-natal service in Blackwood is proving to be a boon for mums-to-be.

Based at Charter Housing's community house on the Fairview estate, it is designed to provide more accessible and comfortable services in familiar surroundings.

Charter, part of the Seren Group, has joined with the Aneurin Bevan Health Board's women and child health division, to offer the scheme.

As well as health checks and advice from qualified community midwives in the run-up to the birth, there is the opportunity to attend support sessions once the baby is born.

Kate Aspinwall, community development officer at Charter Housing, said the aim was to bring ante-natal services closer to the community.

It is also hoped that the community house will begin to create a real focal point for the Fairview and Upper Trelyn communities.

Plans for the future include breastfeeding support, parent and family sessions and a parent and toddler group.

Mum-to-be Emma Brown said: "The community clinic is really good for me because I can bring along my older children, who can play with the toys and other kids in the playroom downstairs, while I have my check-ups.

"This is my fourth pregnancy, so I know that it really helps to have a midwife that you are comfortable with and the support and friendship of other mothers in the area."

Lesley Constance, lead midwife for the Aneurin Bevan Health Board in the Caerphilly area, said the clinic placed midwives within the community which allowed the team to provide more consistent and tailored support to local women.

The clinic runs every Monday at 5, Clos Ceirw. For more information contact Lesley Constance on 02920 807231 or Kate Aspinwall 01633 678514.