Local midwives win national prize for parenting courses

Consultant midwife in public health Nina Khazaezade and children's centre midwife Claire Singh were joint winners of the 'Developing postnatal care and early parenting' category for their role in setting up parenting courses in Lambeth and Southwark.

Already more than 150 families have taken part in the innovative courses at Coin Street Family and Children's Centre (now Coin Street Neighbourhood Centre) and the Kennington Park Children's Centre. The courses are expected to extend to more children's centres in the two boroughs.

The project involves midwives, a dietician, a speech and language therapist, a literacy worker and other health professionals. Topics tackled in the courses ranged from parenting to baby massage.

"Nina and Claire are truly deserving of this award for their initiative and enthusiasm in developing services to meet the specific needs of women and children," says Marie McDonald, clinical director of women's services at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust.

"Good early parenting skills are a foundation to build on for both parent and child."

Nina said: "This is a fantastic achievement because it highlights our commitment and contribution to our local population.

"This award is great recognition for this project which operates in the heart of the community and we have already received fantastic feedback from the families who took the courses."

Nina and Claire were given a prize of £500, a glass trophy and an official certificate by junior health minister Ann Keen MP at a special ceremony held at the Royal Garden Hotel, Kensington on 17 January.