Darcey Croft has been nominated for the ‘Best Midwife’ award thanks to her notable work as a specialist perinatal mental health midwife with Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, where she cares for pregnant women struggling with a range of mental wellbeing concerns, including anxiety and psychosis.

The star-studded awards ceremony is set to be hosted by Davina McCall on 22^nd November and will be screened to the public on Channel 4 on 27^th November.

Speaking about her nomination, Darcey – who is studying with the School of Nursing, Midwifery & Health Education – said: “I am so excited and happy to be a shortlisted nominee for this award and very grateful to all the women who nominated me. Hopefully – because of what I do for a job and the stories of my patients – it will give maternal mental health, and the challenges faced by so many, a much needed spotlight.”

She added: “Any time I can contribute to increasing awareness about improving maternal mental health is a good day for me. Although the idea of standing on stage in front of such a glamorous audience is slightly terrifying to say the least, if it means mothers who are struggling become visible then that will be huge personal win for me.”

Darcey was nominated for the award by three mothers, including her own daughter – whose baby Darcey delivered at the side of a dual-carriageway in April this year.

Rachel Bruce, Course Leader and Principal Lecturer in Advanced Clinical Practice, said: “Darcey’s area of expertise is as a specialist maternal mental health midwife for which she has been nominated for this award. Darcey is an asset to the course as she brings her own expertise into the learning environment for other students, which enhances the student experience and the interaction between peers.

“She is a diligent and engaging student and we wish her the greatest of luck at the upcoming award ceremony as she deserves the accolade for enhancing the lives of patients, families and students.”

The Advanced Clinical Practice course is open to registered nurses who are looking to take the next step in their career, giving them the skills to become an advanced practitioner who can lead and develop healthcare provision both inside and outside of the typical hospital environment. The course also provides students with access to on-campus simulation labs which help to mimic real-life conditions, benefitting the overall practise and experience of the University’s healthcare students.